ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Concerned community members waited outside locked council chambers in the middle of the workday. Some held signs advocating against a possible data center, others donned a coverall with “No Data Center” written on the back.
Once doors opened, dozens poured into the room, ready to resume a public hearing paused 10 days before. Besides a crowded audience, most empty seats filled the “horseshoe” where council members sit.
Three city leaders attended the meeting: Ald. Tamir Bell (D-13th Ward), Ald. Gina Meeks (D-12th Ward) and Ald. Janessa Neal (D-7th Ward)…