Data center moratorium advances as McHenry County eyes rules on water, electricity, noise
The McHenry County Planning, Development and Environment Committee advanced a proposed 12-month moratorium on new data centers in unincorporated areas. County officials want time to develop rules addressing electricity use, water consumption, cooling, stormwater and noise before the full County Board considers the measure.
The McHenry County Planning, Development and Environment Committee approved advancing a 12-month pause on new data centers in unincorporated McHenry County. The moratorium would not apply within municipalities unless they adopt their own restrictions, and no data center is currently proposed in the county’s unincorporated areas.
Board member Joe Gottemoller said existing county ordinances do not regulate data center parking, electricity, water or noise. Planning and Development Director Adam Wallen said the county is gathering utility-use data and reviewing requirements for issues including water consumption, electrical demand and stormwater management. The full County Board is expected to vote on the moratorium at its November meeting.