SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - In Sangamon County, the community heard directly from officials about a proposed $500 million data center. County leaders say the center could bring more jobs and tax revenue, but some community members expressed concerns about the negative impact it could have on the area.
"We don't know the effect that it's going to have on our utility bills, but we do know that everywhere these things have been built. Utility bills have gone way, not just a little," said community member Don Hanrahan.
The county is partnering with a company called CyrusOne. The project includes six data centers on one large campus, which could take six to 10 years to complete. Illinois has multiple data centers. These facilities represent more than $1.2 billion in infrastructure investment. Many people are concerned their electric bill will skyrocket, but the rural electric cooperative says rates will not increase.
"This is a $500 million project, which means that 500 construction jobs and 100 permanent jobs," said Sangamon County Board member Andy Van Meter.
Over 20 years, the county estimates $100 million in tax revenue, which will be divided among the school district and others. Many union workers support the data center.
"It's going to maintain 100 jobs yearly for that community and for the members and the people of this area. So, it's a win-win project for everybody," said union worker Doug Hall.
Van Meter said the county will not likely partake in a six-month moratorium, but they can add to the zoning regulations based on concerns from some citizens.
Visit the Sangamon County board website for more information on the CyrusOne Data Center.
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