Mayor Brandon Johnson has taken a strong step against the unchecked growth of data centers by signing an executive order aimed at tightening scrutiny on the industry within Chicago. While the order does not directly impose new restrictions on data center growth, it signals a significant shift toward regulating their impact on the city.
Key Directives of the Executive Order
The mayor’s order focuses on several critical aspects:
- Strengthening air pollution evaluations for new data centers
- Implementing noise restrictions
- Increasing the authority of city departments to review water and electricity usage
Johnson also called on the City Council to put a temporary halt on new data center projects. This pause, he stressed, is vital while comprehensive protective measures are established.
“This is a newer phenomenon, and we want to get as out front of this matter as fast as we possibly can,” Johnson emphasized during a news conference.
Setting the City’s Terms
The mayor underlined the need for Chicago to set its own terms for data center development. With artificial intelligence driving an increase in such facilities, Johnson insisted that the city should not be passively affected but rather lead how this development unfolds.
The executive order is the city’s most assertive action yet regarding data centers, highlighting concerns over noise, pollution, and substantial resource consumption. Johnson’s move aligns with a proposal by City Council Environmental Chair Ald. Maria Hadden, who seeks to enforce mandatory reporting of electricity and water usage by data centers.
Broader Context and Support
Across the nation, many regions are reconsidering the growth of data centers. According to Heatmap Pro, numerous counties have implemented restrictions, with several towns in Illinois enacting moratoriums or restrictive ordinances.
Amidst political challenges, Mayor Johnson’s executive order gained visible support from progressive aldermen during its announcement. The move might also help resolve tensions with the City Council, stemming from earlier budgetary disagreements.
Johnson also urged state legislators to advance the POWER Act. This proposed legislation targets larger data centers likely to situate outside city jurisdictions.
He dismissed concerns about the order’s potential impact on Chicago’s economy, emphasizing the priority of preserving the Great Lakes.
“Development cannot happen at the expense of working people,” Johnson stated.
Current State and Future Implications
Chicago houses 39 data centers currently, with more proposals emerging as digital demands increase. A recent plan involves constructing a data center inside the historic Loop building at 300 W. Adams St. The push for stricter regulations is supported by recommendations from the city’s Sustainable Data Centers Working Group.
Environmental advocates like Iyana Simba have praised Johnson’s initiative, citing widespread concerns regarding data centers’ environmental impact and their role in escalating electricity bills.
A Point of Symbolism
The announcement of the executive order took place on Northerly Island, a location that holds historical significance for reclaiming urban spaces in Chicago. Angela Tovar, from the Department of Environment, underscored the importance of prioritizing green growth and community health in urban planning.
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