Mayor Brandon Johnson proposes Chicago data center moratorium: ‘We can’t wait’
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed a one-year moratorium ordinance on new data center developments to allow the city time to craft long-term policies addressing concerns about pollution, water use, and electricity costs. The proposal faces mixed reactions within the City Council, with some aldermen supporting a temporary pause while others advocate for immediate regulatory action.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has formally proposed a one-year moratorium ordinance on data center developments within the city. The mayor stated the temporary pause is necessary to allow his administration to develop comprehensive long-term policies and regulations to address growing concerns regarding data center impacts on pollution, water usage, and electricity costs. He emphasized that Chicago is "open for business, but not for sale," seeking responsible growth that protects residents' quality of life.
The proposal follows an August executive order by Johnson establishing a city task force to craft new regulations and urging aldermen to pass a moratorium. Ald. Maria Hadden, chair of the City Council Environmental Committee and a co-sponsor of the legislation, described it as a "year safeguard" to allow the city to catch up on regulation. However, the proposal has drawn criticism from some in the City Council, including Ald. Bill Conway, who plans to introduce his own legislation for immediate data center regulations, arguing that Johnson's approach risks delays and litigation while development continues without oversight. Other Illinois officials, like Comptroller Susana Mendoza and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, have expressed caution regarding a moratorium, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to economic development and responsible environmental practices.