NEW: Wisconsin city passes anti-data center referendum

In Port Washington, Wisconsin, voters passed the nation's first anti-data center referendum, requiring direct voter approval for all future data center developments seeking tax breaks or incentives. This initiative arose from concerns over large tax increment financing schemes, which residents felt were decided without their input. Christine LeJeune of Great Lakes Neighbor United explained that while the vote concerned the tax structure, it also reflected a desire for residents to have their voices heard on such significant developments. Prescott Balch, also from Great Lakes Neighbor United, highlighted that local leaders attempted to block the vote in court, but the referendum ultimately proceeded. He noted that the tax breaks proposed were equivalent to 45 years of Port Washington's property tax revenue, underscoring the scale of the financial incentives. Balch, a retired technology professional, advocates for communities to find appropriate locations for data centers and negotiate better deals for taxpayers, believing these projects are too large for traditional behind-the-scenes processes. Concerns also included public health issues, such as asthma, and questions about power lines and eminent domain related to infrastructure.