Rockford alderman proposes temporary data center moratorium
Rockford Alderman Jonathan Logemann has proposed a temporary moratorium on future data center development in Rockford, Illinois. This pause aims to allow city leaders to conduct studies and address community concerns. The proposal is backed by Mayor Tom McNamara and faces active opposition from local residents.
Alderman Jonathan Logemann of Rockford, Illinois, has proposed a temporary moratorium on future data center development within the city. The proposal aims to create a pause for city staff to conduct a review of best practices, address community concerns, and develop a more informed plan for future decisions regarding data centers. Logemann emphasized the importance of building public trust on controversial topics and sees the moratorium as a helpful first step for the next three to six months.
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara has publicly backed the plan, stating that it is "just another step in repairing Rockford for the future." The announcement comes amidst strong community opposition, with residents attending city council meetings with "no data center signs." Rockford resident George Cern stressed his desire for no data center in his backyard, reflecting sentiments also shared by people from nearby New Milford and Cherry Valley.