Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – As the governor says he wants data centers to be responsible and pay their power bills without sweetheart deals. And, as Illinois lawmakers Wednesday will propose legislation to protect consumers from data centers, Sangamon County residents are, one more time, urging the County Board to not approve a proposed data center near Lowder — at least, not yet.

“Postponing approval of this project causes no financial hardship on the developer, or the sellers of the property,” said Lori McKiernan, resident, to the Sangamon County Board Tuesday night.  “Approving the project before you can ensure actual benefits to the community is not reasonable economic development.  A 180 day moratorium would allow many of the negative impacts to be resolved, and would allow time to negotiate a community benefits agreement.”

Other residents also asked the board Tuesday night what the rush is.  This, despite months of public meetings, months of public comment, and a potential final vote before the Sangamon County Board not scheduled until March 23, in a meeting that will be held at the BOS Center due to expected public interest.

“At (data center owner) CyrusOne, we make it a priority to be accessible and fully engaged in every community where we invest.  We believe strong projects start with strong local relationships, said Brad Hout, Director of Location and Power Strategy for CyrusOne.  “Over the past several months, our team has been focused on listening and learning from all members of the community and region.  We are continuously meeting with local stakeholders to understand community needs and priorities, and to reinforce our commitment to being a good neighbor and trusted partner.”

Some disputed the promises made by CyrusOne and how great they say having such a data center will be.

“Their representative just got up here to spout predictable P.R. talking points about the importance of conversations, making empty promises that — even if true — make no assurance of positive outcomes for this community,” said Salem King, resident.  “He assured us longevity; but on little to no basis, given the nature of the A.I. industry.  He’s lying.  And, every syllable he spoke proves that he is only interested in good P.R.”

While residents continue to disagree with the benefits that CyrusOne and the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance (SSGA) have claimed the county will have, and claim that they may not be here long if true, the alleged benefits continue to be brought up.

“The change in the tax revenue to the county will be significant,” said Ryan McCrady, SSGA CEO.  This land right now generates about $20,000 in property taxes.  Your county assessor has estimated the property taxes to be over $6 million on this 280 acres once this is constructed.”

Those against fear the data center won’t be around long, while CyrusOne claims facilities built in the early 2000’s elsewhere by them are still operating.