Letter writer criticizes Wisconsin data center tax breaks and endorses challenger
A letter to the editor criticizes Wisconsin’s data center sales-tax exemptions, arguing they could cost the state more than $2 billion while schools and local services face budget pressures. The writer opposes Rep. Pat Snyder’s vote and endorses John Kroll in the 85th Assembly District.
Dr. Frank Fernandes of Wausau criticizes Wisconsin’s 2023 decision to exempt data center construction from the state sales and use tax. Citing a Legislative Fiscal Bureau projection, he says the policy could result in $1.5 billion in forgone construction-phase sales taxes and another $369 million annually after facilities are built.
Fernandes argues that subsidizing hyperscale data centers operated by large technology companies is a poor use of public funds while communities struggle to support schools and essential services. He says he supports Democratic candidate John Kroll over Republican state Rep. Pat Snyder in Wisconsin’s 85th Assembly District.