New grassroots coalition says data center fight isn’t over
A new grassroots organization, Illinois Open Field Coalition Forward, has formed in central Illinois to oppose data center proposals, particularly challenging a project in Sangamon County. The group plans to file a lawsuit against Sangamon County's zoning decision for a CyrusOne data center, arguing the conditional use zoning was inappropriately applied. They are also informing other counties about how to resist data center developments.
A new grassroots organization, Illinois Open Field Coalition Forward, led by Tara Bergschneider, has emerged to rally community involvement against data center proposals across central Illinois, specifically mentioning Sangamon, Christian, and Logan counties.
The coalition's primary goal is to educate residents on how to oppose and potentially stop data center developments, citing concerns about their environmental impact, particularly for rural communities. Bergschneider stated that despite a Sangamon County Board vote approving a data center project, the fight is far from over. The organization plans to file a lawsuit challenging Sangamon County's conditional use zoning for a CyrusOne data center, arguing that the facility was improperly compared to agricultural structures like grain bins.
The group aims to prevent the CyrusOne data center in Sangamon County from proceeding, raising questions about potential noise standard violations and the impact on local businesses and residences. An informational meeting was scheduled in Springfield to discuss strategies for other counties, including public records research and documenting concerns. Supporters of data centers, including the CyrusOne project, emphasize the potential for economic growth and job creation in central Illinois.