Educational Speaker Series on Data Centers Premieres Tonight at Uptown Social
The City of Sheboygan is hosting an educational speaker series on data centers, following the Common Council's approval of a 12-month moratorium on large data center zoning and building permits. The moratorium aims to allow time for discussions and development of new zoning regulations. Alliant Energy's Wisconsin President, Becky Valcq, is the first speaker in the series.
The City of Sheboygan has commenced an educational speaker series on data centers, prompted by a recently enacted 12-month moratorium on zoning approvals and building permits for large data centers. City Administrator Casey Bradley stated that the moratorium, which can be extended to 18 months, is intended to facilitate an open discussion and allow the city to incorporate necessary provisions into its zoning laws.
Bradley emphasized that while Sheboygan cannot outright ban data centers, as they are legal businesses in Wisconsin, the city can regulate their placement and operational aspects, such as setbacks and environmental controls, typically directing them to high-industrial-zoned areas. The speaker series aims to provide the community and the Common Council with shared information, leading to the development of a robust zoning framework with the help of Wisconsin-specific zoning attorneys.
The inaugural speaker for the series is Becky Valcq, President of Alliant Energy's Wisconsin electric company. Addressing concerns about potential disruptions to the discussions, Bradley assured that the city would ensure a productive environment, with Sheboygan Police Department and staff present to maintain safety for speakers and the public during the event at Uptown Social.