Angry residents may get some data center relief

Residents of the Town of Port Washington, Wisconsin, are voicing strong opposition to the ongoing 24/7 construction at Vantage Data Centers' Lighthouse Campus, citing unbearable noise from heavy machinery and truck backup alarms, as well as increased traffic. The community also vehemently opposes proposals to house data center construction workers in recreational vehicles or campers parked in the town. In response to resident complaints, Port Mayor Ted Neitzke announced he would bring a measure to the city’s Plan Commission on Thursday, March 19, to end the around-the-clock exterior construction within approximately one month, significantly earlier than Vantage Data Centers' anticipated May completion of 24-hour work. Mayor Neitzke stated he heard the neighbors “loud and clear” and is working with Vantage on an adjusted schedule. Separately, the Town Plan Commission, on March 11, rejected a request from Jeff St. Peter to establish RV spaces for data center workers on the former Heatwole Foundry property. Instead, the commission instructed Planner Christy DeMaster to draft a new ordinance to better regulate campers and RV parking, aiming to preserve the town’s rural character. Residents emphasized the distinction between personal RV use and commercial leasing for worker housing, urging tighter regulations. Commission members agreed on the need for clearer definitions in the town code and suggested involving the town attorney due to the issue's complexity, while also acknowledging potential enforcement challenges.