Turtle board rejects cost agreement with data center developer, passes moratorium resolution

The Town of Turtle Board of Supervisors in Rock County, Wisconsin, unanimously rejected a revised cost reimbursement agreement with Panattoni Development Co., a California firm proposing a $1 billion hyperscale data center campus dubbed "Project Cornmaze." During a special 16-minute meeting, the board also passed a resolution to begin the process of implementing a 12-month moratorium on all developments larger than 10,000 square feet within the town, effectively pausing data center proposals in the Beloit area for at least a year and a half.

Town of Turtle Board Chairman Roger Anclam, who initially supported the original cost agreement with Panattoni, stated he changed his vote after the company requested revisions and following significant community opposition. Residents had filed for a recall election against Anclam after the initial agreement was approved. Anclam now believes a moratorium is necessary to allow the town to revise its ordinances and comprehensive plan, ensuring protections are in place against rapid development.

Panattoni's "Project Cornmaze" envisioned a 2 million-square-foot data center across the towns of Turtle and Beloit, estimated to generate substantial economic impact and property taxes. However, these benefits failed to garner public support, leading to numerous residents expressing opposition at local board meetings. Shelly Strommen, representing the Rock County Neighbors for Responsible Development, indicated ongoing efforts to deter Panattoni despite the recent votes.

The Turtle board's decision initiates a multi-step process for the moratorium, including public meetings and the passing of an ordinance. The Town of Beloit board and Town of Rock board are also scheduled to vote on similar moratoriums, signaling a broader regional response to data center development.