Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson seeking data center moratorium while Ald. Bill Conway seeks immediate regulations
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed a one-year moratorium on new or expanded data centers to develop regulations addressing environmental concerns. Separately, Ald. Bill Conway has introduced an ordinance to implement immediate restrictions and zoning requirements for data centers in the city. Both proposals have been sent to the City Council's Rules Committee, which often delays legislation.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has put forth a proposal for a one-year moratorium on the development of new data centers and the expansion of existing facilities within the city. The mayor's plan, supported by three allies from the City Council's Progressive Caucus, aims to create time for a mayoral task force to devise a comprehensive strategy to address critical concerns related to water usage, energy consumption, and air quality impacts associated with data centers.
In a counter-move, Ald. Bill Conway (34th) has introduced his own legislative measure, pushing for immediate regulation of Chicago's data center industry. Conway expressed skepticism about the legality of a mayoral moratorium, warning that potential court challenges could allow unchecked data center construction to continue. His proposed ordinance would impose stricter regulations on data centers, including outright bans in specific areas, such as downtown, without explicit zoning approval from the City Council.
Both the mayor's moratorium proposal and Ald. Conway's regulatory ordinance have been referred to the City Council's Rules Committee. This procedural step is frequently used to delay or even block the passage of legislation. Mayor Johnson reiterated his commitment to the moratorium, emphasizing the need for robust standards to safeguard communities and the environment.