Capitol News Illinois | Illinois lawmakers begin days of deep dives on data centers

Illinois lawmakers are conducting a series of hearings in Springfield to delve into the impacts of data centers on local communities, with the House Executive Committee holding the first session. Chaired by Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, the committee is considering potential regulations like the POWER Act, emphasizing the need to prioritize people and communities over business interests. Key concerns raised include water and energy use, noise pollution, and the structure of community benefit agreements. Local officials offered varied perspectives. DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes lauded Meta's data center, highlighting its significant contributions to property and utility taxes, which support local services and education, and praised its community investments. He cautioned against regulations that could deter future economic development. Conversely, Aurora Mayor John Laesch reported resident complaints about constant low-frequency hums from data centers, causing sleep disturbances and stress. Aurora has already enacted ordinances requiring future data centers to meet standards for noise, water, and energy, and to source power from renewables. Separately, a CyrusOne data center project in Sangamon County recently received zoning approval. However, former Sangamon County Board member Marc Ayers, who voted against the proposal and resigned thereafter, voiced resident concerns about noise and water, and questioned the company's