Plainfield Looks to Avoid Joliet’s "Mad Rush" with Data Center Moratorium

The Plainfield Village Board has unanimously approved a 180-day moratorium on new data center developments, aiming to prevent the infrastructure strain and controversy observed in nearby Joliet. Mayor John Argoudelis and the Board emphasized the necessity to update the village's zoning laws and verify the capacity of local power grids before permitting new facilities. Argoudelis specifically noted that Plainfield is "underpowered right now" and suggested data centers might need to provide their own electricity. Village Administrator Joshua Blackmore explained that the moratorium is designed to provide sufficient time to prepare and adopt a new Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) that will address the unique land use, infrastructure, and regulatory challenges posed by data centers. Trustees Richard Kiefer and Margie Bonuchi voiced their support for this proactive approach, with Bonuchi commending the village for "getting in front of it." The ordinance includes a provision for extending the moratorium if the UDO update is not completed within the initial 180 days. Critics of data centers often cite environmental concerns, such as potential water pollution and high electricity consumption. The article references a recent decision by the Joliet City Council to approve data center development on 795 acres despite community outrage. Plainfield resident Travis Whitmore expressed satisfaction with the board's proactive steps, emphasizing the need for thorough research before integrating data centers into the community.