The Aurora City Council on Nov. 25 approved a moratorium-hardship resolution allowing Loaves & Fishes to proceed with a proposed expansion at 560 and 580 Exchange Court despite a temporary moratorium on data centers and warehouses.

Tracy Basic, director of zoning and planning, explained that hardship relief requires the applicant to demonstrate economic hardship caused by the moratorium, a lack of reasonable return absent relief, substantial prior investment, and compliance with other city regulations. Planning staff told the council the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval.

Mike Abella, CEO of Loaves & Fishes, described the charity as "the largest food pantry in the state of Illinois," saying the organization serves about "10,000 people per week" and that Aurora accounts for roughly half of those served. He said the 30,000-square-foot Aurora distribution hub, opened in 2021, would be expanded by about 32,000 square feet and that the total project budget is roughly $8,000,000 funded by donor contributions. Abella said the organization has already invested approximately $4,100,000 in the properties and that delays risk losing funding and slowing the project's service benefits.

Councilors asked procedural questions about the hardship route, and staff confirmed hardship appeals go directly to council (not to BZA). After hearing the presentation and a motion, the council approved the hardship by roll call, 9 yes, 0 no.

Next steps: Loaves & Fishes may pursue permits and begin construction according to the approved hardship process; staff will continue to process required permits and conditions.