Residents sue to stop Sangamon County data center
Waverly residents in Sangamon County, Illinois, have filed a lawsuit against Sangamon County and its Board, seeking to overturn the approval of a CyrusOne data center project. The lawsuit alleges procedural errors and inconsistencies with county zoning ordinances. CyrusOne has affirmed its commitment to the development despite the legal challenge.
Several residents of Waverly, Illinois, who live near the proposed CyrusOne data center site, filed a lawsuit on July 6 against Sangamon County and the Sangamon County Board. The suit aims to overturn the county's April 7 approval of the project, alleging the resolution was misdated and that allowing a data center on agricultural land without fully understanding its impacts could harm nearby farms, residences, and a dog kennel business.
Attorney Chloe Russell, representing the plaintiffs, cited an Illinois local zoning law permitting judicial review of county zoning decisions within 90 days. The lawsuit contends that the approval lacks a rational basis, does not comply with mandatory county zoning ordinance standards, and that the industrial classification within an agricultural district is arbitrary and unreasonable. Additionally, it claims a county ordinance from July 2025, which allows data centers, conflicts with the county's comprehensive plan.
Brian McFadden, Sangamon County Administrator, stated confidence in the county's procedures and confirmed the State's Attorney's Office would represent the county. Circuit Judge Adam Giganti is assigned to the case, with no initial court dates set. CyrusOne, named as a 'necessary party in interest,' reiterated its commitment to the project, emphasizing the creation of jobs, expansion of the local tax base, and investments in infrastructure and workforce development for the community.