The Urbana City Council met in regular session Tuesday evening, where public comment once again centered on concerns surrounding the potential of a data center and what residents described as an apparent lack of transparency throughout the process.
Several citizens voiced frustration over the limited information being shared about the potential project and the pace at which it appears to be moving forward. One local business owner raised concerns that the proposed data center could take the place of land previously believed to be available for future business expansion, prompting questions about long-term planning and economic development.
Residents also noted a lack of positive feedback from the community regarding the project and urged council members to take action.
Members of the council briefly discussed the possibility of introducing legislation to enact a moratorium on the proposed data center. The moratorium would intend to temporarily halt further progress on the project to allow time for additional information to be gathered and shared with both council members and the public.
Law Director Mark Feinstein confirmed that he will prepare moratorium legislation for consideration at the next regular council meeting on February 17. He also discussed what the legislation could look like and how it might be structured to allow for further review and public input.
Council members noted that a pause in the process could help improve communication and allow for more informed decision-making.
Additional comment included praise for the city’s snow removal crews for their efforts during recent winter weather. Council also acknowledged local business owners who assisted by clearing sidewalks to help improve safety and accessibility throughout the city.
Other Business
During the meeting, City Council voted 4–3 to approve additional funding for inspection services on the CHP–Urbana Bike Trail Project (PID 115978). Council authorized a purchase order to True Inspection Services, LLC, in the amount of $7,027 to cover extended inspection needs caused by delays in electrical components. With the additional funding, the total inspection cost for the project now stands at $90,399.12.
Council also voted 7–0 to approve a change in the city’s health insurance provider from Anthem to United Health Care. The change is expected to reduce premiums by 16.7 percent, resulting in an estimated savings of $322,055. Total health insurance expenses are projected at $1,602,216. Council was also informed of a 3 percent increase in dental insurance costs, amounting to an estimated $2,300 increase for the year.
