PEKIN, Ill. – A proposed data center project for the city of Pekin will not move forward.
During Monday night’s city council meeting, Mayor Mary Burress made the announcement via a prepared statement, saying it was not an easy decision.
“After careful(ly) consideration, I have made the difficult decision that the city of Pekin will not move forward with this project at this time,” Burress said.
The announcement was met with loud applause and cheers from those attending the meeting in opposition to the data center. Opponents had been filling the city council chambers in the past month to voice their concerns, ranging from environmental impacts to electricity costs to noise pollution.
City leaders in favor of the project pointed to increased tax revenues and jobs, as well as increased housing demands.
A townhall for the project was scheduled for March 24th.
Burress continued reading from her statement after making the announcement. She says the city will focus on opportunities with the long-term interests of Pekin.
In saying the decision was difficult, Burress noted the project had the potential of investments, jobs, and long-term economic benefits for Pekin, and had to consider the city’s future. But she added that required listening to those against the project and their concerns.
Burress says the conversation over the data center brought the “good, and at times, worst, in our community.” She claimed that those against the project levy accusations and statements against city staff that were not true, and defended city staff.
“Disagreements and debates are part of a healthy community, but it is important that we treat each other with fairness and respect,” Burress said.
Burress closed her statement by saying that aspects of the proposal brought opportunity, but it was not the right project at this time for Pekin.
