Advocacy groups push for oversight as data center growth expands in Joliet

Isabela Jaimes, Illinois State Program Coordinator for GreenLatinos, discussed concerns over the rapid expansion of data centers in Joliet. She stated that Joliet residents are organizing and are aware of the issues surrounding data center development, emphasizing that they do not want their community to become another example of the negative impacts when data centers enter without sufficient oversight. Jaimes highlighted several concerns regarding a recently approved data center in Joliet, described as the biggest in the state. Key issues include a lack of community involvement and transparency, noting that developers often enter the community with non-disclosure agreements. Environmental impacts are a major concern, particularly the development's reliance on the depleting Kankakee aquifer, which is Joliet's primary water source. The project, slated for completion in 2030, will continue to draw from this aquifer, exacerbating the city's water struggles. Additionally, Jaimes pointed to increased electricity usage, which is leading to higher energy bills for residents across Illinois and straining the aging power grid. Regarding job creation, a common argument for data centers, Jaimes noted skepticism. She mentioned concerns about the longevity of construction jobs (around five years) and whether these jobs genuinely go to local residents or are filled by workers from outside the area, including Chicago. She referenced the work of partners at Warehouse Workers for Justice who are deeply examining the intersection of environmental justice and workforce issues.