DeKalb 1st Ward Alderwoman Carolyn Zasada speaks in opposition to Donato Solar's plans during a Sept. 8, 2025, meeting of the DeKalb City Council. The council’s decision comes to a head after DeKalb city leaders previously rejected plans for a data center and solar array earlier this month. The petitioner, Nick Mahoney of Donato Solar, wanted to build a 4-megawatt solar energy system and two 6,000-square-foot data center buildings on about 30 acres at 1199 N. Peace Road. But a vocal pushback from area residents and a failed City Council vote earlier this month caused the plans to fizzle out. In January, plans for what project leaders have previously said would make for a “boutique data center” received favorable support from an advisory panel.