Sangamon County Board approves a controversial data center project

The Sangamon County Board narrowly approved a $500 million data center project proposed by Dallas-based CyrusOne in Talkington Township, Illinois, near Waverly. The vote, 17 to 10 with one abstention, granted a crucial zoning change allowing the construction of a large-scale data campus on approximately 280 acres of farmland. The decision came after a contentious public meeting at the Bank of Springfield Center, where opponents voiced their disapproval with outbursts and had some individuals escorted out by law enforcement. The project, which had been tabled by the board in March, has generated significant debate. Economic development officials, including Ryan McCrady of the Springfield-Sangamon Growth Alliance, and organized labor, represented by Josh Summers of the Iron Workers union, strongly supported the development. They foresee substantial benefits such as an estimated 500 construction jobs over several years, 100 permanent jobs, and a significant increase in property tax revenue, projected to rise from $20,000-$50,000 to $6.5 million annually for various taxing bodies like the North Mac School District, Virden Fire Protection District, Talkington Township, and Lincoln Land Community College. However, residents and advocacy groups raised serious concerns during the public comment period, with Maribel Cruz-Hine urging the board to "listen to the community" and "take more time for research." Opponents cited worries about the environmental impact, including noise and air pollution from backup diesel generators, the strain on the power grid from the center's estimated 600 megawatts of electricity usage, and potential increases in utility costs. They also advocated for a local moratorium to allow the Illinois General Assembly to consider state-level regulations for data center development. Board member Tracy Sheppard echoed some of these concerns, emphasizing the need for clarity on long-term impacts. CyrusOne officials addressed some criticisms, stating they plan to use a closed-loop cooling system to reduce water usage and will fund electrical infrastructure upgrades. They also acknowledged noise issues at a previous facility in Aurora but claimed the Sangamon County project would be further from residential areas. Despite the board's approval, opponents, such as Salem King, stated that public opposition to the data center remains ongoing, and the project still requires various construction permits.