Rep. Ann Williams Holds Hearings on Illinois Data Centers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois House Executive Committee, chaired by State Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, is holding a series of subject matter hearings on the impact of data centers on local communities. 

“We need to center our conversations on data centers around community impact,” said Williams. “Noise, air quality, water and energy usage are significant concerns for local residents.” 

On Wednesday, the Executive Committee hosted its first subject matter hearing on data centers, titled “Data Center Local Impacts.” Throughout this session, committee members heard from various experts and local government officials, including DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes and Aurora Mayor John Laesch. The mayors shared their perspective on the positive economic impact that data centers have on their surrounding area, but also addressed concerns regarding noise, energy needs and water usage.

“As data center development continues in Illinois, we need to put the needs people first. That means  safeguards to protect residents from rising utility costs, preserve natural resources and address community concerns.”

The second hearing will be held on Wednesday, April 15 and will focus on “Data Center Energy Use.” The third hearing will be held on Wednesday, April 22, and will address “Data Center Water Use.” Both meetings will take place in Springfield but can be streamed live at www.ilga.gov. 

For more information on these hearings, please contact ann@repannwilliams.com or the House Executive Committee staff at executivecommittee@hds.ilga.gov.