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Cicero board hears expert testimony on proposed one‑year data‑center moratorium, moves hearing to Aug. 26
Summary
The Town of Cicero opened a public hearing on a proposed one‑year moratorium on large‑scale data centers. A local expert urged the board not to impose a moratorium, while board members voted to continue the hearing to Aug. 26 for more public input and technical analysis.
The Town Board of Cicero opened a public hearing at 6:17 p.m. on a proposed local law to impose a temporary one‑year moratorium on zone changes and special permits for large‑scale data centers.
Mike Boyle, who introduced himself as a subject‑matter expert on data centers, told the board he opposed a moratorium and warned the town could fall "behind the 8 ball" if it paused approvals. "I'm totally against the moratorium," Boyle said, arguing that different data‑center sizes use different infrastructure and that local economic opportunities could be lost if the town delays decisions. He described differences between small, midsize, large and hyperscale centers and discussed cooling and power options, saying the state’s impending actions could shift, so local policy should be carefully considered.
Supervisor (speaker 1) emphasized the moratorium would be temporary and framed it as a tool to give the board time "to analyze the benefits and potential downsides of these facilities being built within our borders." Board members raised questions about what the town would gain in revenue, the water and electric demand of a given project, and how state action interacts with local authority.
After the public testimony and discussion, several board members said they wanted more time to seek expert input and public comment. The board voted to adjourn/continue the public hearing to August 26, 2026, at 6 p.m. so staff can gather additional technical information and the public has more opportunity to comment.
Why it matters: a local moratorium would pause new applications and could shape whether data‑center projects that rely on significant electricity and cooling resources locate inside Cicero. The decision affects infrastructure planning (water and power), potential tax or subscription revenue, and the town’s ability to negotiate terms with large developers.
What’s next: the board directed staff to compile reports, consult available state and county studies, and invite additional experts before the August 26 continuation. Residents who cannot attend were told they may submit written comments to the board for the record.
