Stevens Point starts data center conversation
Stevens Point's planning commission held a public discussion about how the city should respond if a data center developer submits a proposal. Residents and officials raised concerns about environmental impacts, transparency, economic benefits, power supply and water use, while noting that data centers are currently allowed in industrial zoning districts.
The Stevens Point Planning Commission opened a public discussion on data centers after developers expressed interest in the city, although no construction proposal is currently under consideration. City officials said data centers are barred from residential and commercial districts but could be built in industrial areas under existing zoning rules.
Residents raised concerns about environmental impacts, limited economic benefits, transparency and the effect of a potential project on the city's appeal to students and outdoor enthusiasts. Alder Mary Kneebone and Community Development Director Jarod Kivela said the discussion was intended to help the community shape the city's response, while congressional candidates Fred Clark and Michael Alfonso called for stronger regulation and addressed the sector's potential effects on energy, water and employment.