Wisconsin Rapids Plan Commission rejects permit for data center
The Wisconsin Rapids Plan Commission unanimously voted 7-0 to deny a conditional use permit application from DC Rapids LLC for a data center project. City staff cited missing elements in the application, which prompted public opposition. The decision will now proceed to the common council on October 20.
The Wisconsin Rapids Plan Commission unanimously voted 7-0 to deny a conditional use permit application submitted by DC Rapids LLC for the construction of a data center. The decision will now be forwarded to the common council for a final vote scheduled for October 20.
City Associate Planner Lizebeth Edwardsen presented a staff report recommending denial, citing several missing elements in the application, including electric utility approval, employment projections, proposed spaces, construction traffic details, and general building orientation. Bill Griffith, representing DC Rapids LLC, countered that their application met all requirements and expressed the company's intent to continue working with the city for clarification.
The meeting featured remarks from applicant Anton Voronkin and substantial public comment. Marissa Johnson of South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development voiced strong opposition, urging the commission to deny the "atrocity of an application." Conversely, supporters of trade workers advocated for the project, emphasizing potential jobs and economic investment for Wisconsin Rapids. After considering all inputs, the planning commission ultimately voted to deny the permit.