Janesville Public Records Fee Sparks Outrage: Data Center Controversy #shorts

Snow Janesville, a local group, has sought legal assistance from Midwest Environmental Activists (MEA) after the City of Janesville initially denied their open records request regarding proposed data center developments. This request, filed in September, aimed to identify companies that have pitched data center projects for the city's former General Motors site. After more than seven months, the group reports that the city is now demanding over $1,300 for these public records. MEA argues that this cost is unusually high and may not comply with state law, which mandates fees reflect the lowest-paid qualified employee and allows waivers in the public interest. The Rock County District Attorney's Office has also intervened, threatening to sue the city if it fails to adhere to open records laws. MEA is now advocating for an immediate fee waiver and the release of the records, while Janesville states it remains in communication with the group's legal counsel.