Milwaukee joins list of Wisconsin cities putting a pause on data center projects
The Milwaukee Common Council unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on new data center projects, and Mayor Cavalier Johnson signed it the next day. Officials will use the pause to develop zoning standards addressing neighborhood impacts, noise, pollution, energy-grid demands and utility costs, while business leaders warn it could discourage investment.
Milwaukee has enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center construction as city officials develop zoning standards for the industry. The Milwaukee Common Council approved the measure unanimously, and Mayor Cavalier Johnson signed the ordinance the following day. The pause followed public controversy over a proposed data center redevelopment at a vacant Walmart on the city’s north side.
Ald. Marina Dimitrijevic said Milwaukee previously had essentially no data center-specific zoning rules and needed time to evaluate impacts on neighborhoods, noise, pollution, the power grid and utility bills. Dale Kooyenga, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, said the organization opposed the moratorium, arguing that it could deter economic investment, construction jobs and tax revenue, though he acknowledged businesses still have opportunities to negotiate with the city.