Residents of Aurora voiced their concerns during a recent city council meeting, highlighting the disruptive impact of nearby data centers on their quality of life. The meeting, held on September 25, 2025, featured passionate testimonies from community members who described the unbearable noise and increased utility costs associated with the facilities.
One resident, Ms. Evans, shared her distress over the constant humming noise from the data center chillers, which has forced her family to stay indoors during the summer months. She expressed frustration over the slow response to the issue, urging the council to take immediate action to mitigate the noise and consider halting operations at the data center until solutions are implemented. “It’s really needs to be addressed and looked at,” she stated, emphasizing the toll it has taken on her family's well-being.
Another resident, who chose to remain anonymous, echoed these sentiments, expressing outrage over skyrocketing electricity bills that have tripled in recent months. She criticized the city’s reliance on data centers, questioning the long-term benefits for residents. “You’re going to force people to move out of the area, and that’s gonna impact your tax base,” she warned, highlighting the strain on local resources and the potential consequences for small businesses and families.
In response to these growing concerns, the council introduced an ordinance to establish a temporary moratorium on new data center facilities and warehouses across all zoning districts. This move aims to provide the city with time to assess the impact of existing data centers and develop strategies to address the issues raised by residents.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community is seeking immediate relief from the disturbances caused by data centers, as well as a more sustainable approach to managing local resources. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining how they balance economic development with the needs and well-being of Aurora residents.