Bloomington approves 6-month moratorium on data centers
The Bloomington City Council unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on data centers designed with a capacity greater than 5 megawatts. This action was taken to allow the city time to establish regulations, similar to those in Aurora and McLean County. Public hearings on the topic are required during this period, and the moratorium could be extended.
The Bloomington City Council has unanimously approved a six-month moratorium on new data center developments. The temporary ban specifically targets facilities designed with a capacity exceeding 5 megawatts. The council's decision aims to provide time to establish comprehensive regulations for data centers, drawing inspiration from measures already implemented in the city of Aurora and McLean County.
Council member Abby Scott emphasized the immediate need for these discussions to set up regulations. City Manager Jeff Jurgens noted that the council retains the option to extend the moratorium beyond the initial six-month period if necessary. During the moratorium, at least two public hearings on data centers are mandated to take place, facilitating community input and legislative refinement.