Tigerton puts moratorium on data centers
The Tigerton Village Board enacted a one-year moratorium on data centers to establish specific zoning policies and study infrastructure impacts, following an inquiry from a developer. Residents expressed concerns about potential noise and resource depletion, prompting the village to seek more information. The decision gives the village time to address community concerns and prepare regulations.
The Tigerton Village Board has enacted a one-year moratorium on data center development, giving officials time to understand the infrastructure needs and potential impacts on village resources. This decision followed an inquiry from a developer, Blake Simpson, who had discussed his proposal with village officials.
Residents, including Domenic Dedolph, voiced strong concerns during a public hearing, fearing noise pollution and depletion of resources like water and wildlife. Dedolph highlighted the significant energy consumption of data centers and the associated noise, stressing the need for robust zoning regulations to mitigate these impacts. Political candidates, including Rick Crosson and Gillian Battino, also weighed in, suggesting a voter referendum and urging state legislative involvement to protect local control.
Shawano County Supervisor Steve Natzke noted that Shawano County had already established a similar one-year moratorium in June to gather information, suggesting Tigerton could leverage the county's research. Concerns were also raised about non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in data center deals, with Village Attorney Austin Mogard mentioning a court case challenging such agreements under Open Records Law. Village President Steve Reinert emphasized the need to balance potential development with protecting the village's interests.