Christian Co. residents voice concerns over proposed Eagle Rock Partners data center

News Clip1:57WAND News·Christian County, IL·5/27/2026

Christian County residents voiced strong concerns at a county board meeting regarding a proposed data center by Eagle Rock Partners, citing issues like water usage, impact on farmland, and transparency. The county had previously established a moratorium on data center development, and the board did not vote on the proposal at this meeting.

oppositionwaterenvironmentalmoratoriumgovernmentzoning
Gov: Christian County Board, Christian County Economic Development Corporation

Christian County residents gathered in large numbers at a county board meeting to express their concerns regarding a proposed data center by Eagle Rock Partners. The meeting was moved to a larger venue due to the significant turnout. Residents urged county officials to conduct thorough research, with some calling for the outright rejection of data centers in the county.

Major concerns included the potential for high water usage, with one resident from the village of Palmer expressing worry about damage to the water supply impacting the village's main revenue source. Farm owners also highlighted the possible negative effects on agricultural land, local businesses, and the circadian rhythms of wildlife and humans due to increased light pollution. Residents demanded more transparency from their representatives, citing concerns about undisclosed financial benefits to townships without proper consultation.

Christian County had previously established a moratorium on data center development, which is set to remain in place until the board adopts new regulations for data centers in Taylorville. The county board did not vote on the Eagle Rock Partners data center proposal during this meeting. The Christian County Economic Development Corporation is scheduled to host an informational session about the proposed data center on June 2nd.