Evanston Residents Oppose Potential Data Center in Second Ward
Residents in Evanston's Second Ward voiced strong opposition to a proposed data center at a community meeting. An unnamed applicant, represented by property owner Lark Management, filed a zoning analysis application for the 19,650 sq ft site, but City Councilmember Krissie Harris stated no decision has been made yet. Concerns were raised about energy and water consumption, noise pollution, and the potential for the project to circumvent the city's Healthy Buildings Ordinance.
Residents of Evanston's Second Ward expressed significant opposition to a proposed data center during a community meeting. The discussion followed reports that an unnamed applicant submitted a zoning analysis application to the City of Evanston on September 16, seeking a "determination of use for a computer processing center" for an existing industrial building at 1265 Hartrey Ave.
Councilmember Krissie Harris clarified that it is too early to make any decisions, stating she had not seen the proposal. However, residents, including Michael Courier, actively campaigned against the project, distributing flyers that read "no data centers in Evanston" and urging participation in an upcoming City Council meeting on September 28. Opponents highlighted concerns about disproportionate energy and water usage, noise pollution, and the adverse effects of AI technology on workers.
The property manager for the Hartrey space, Reed Beidler, submitted the zoning analysis application for a 20,000 sq ft portion of the building, owned by Lark Management. Residents pointed out that the actual size, 19,650 sq ft, would narrowly avoid the city's Healthy Buildings Ordinance, leading to accusations of attempting to bypass sustainability regulations. Councilmember Harris committed to meeting with Beidler for further clarity on the application.