Charlie Berens on Wisconsin Data Centers: "None of Us Asked"
News Clip0:28Civic Media·Wisconsin Rapids, Wood County, WI·4/30/2026
Comedian Charlie Berens addressed a community forum in Wisconsin Rapids, highlighting widespread concerns among residents about the negative impacts of AI data centers on land, water, and power resources. Over 400 people attended the event, organized by a local development group, with a public hearing scheduled to further discuss the issue. Polling indicates strong opposition to data centers in Wisconsin, with 70% of registered voters believing costs outweigh benefits.
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Gov: Wisconsin Rapids
Comedian Charlie Berens opened a community forum at Wisconsin Rapids Area Middle School, where over 400 residents gathered to discuss the impacts of AI data centers. Berens articulated a sentiment of public dissatisfaction, stating that "none of us asked these tech companies to take so much of our data and copywritten material that now they need our land and our water and our power to store this data, to train AI." He cited polling indicating that 70% of registered Wisconsin voters believe the costs associated with AI data centers outweigh their benefits.
The event was organized by the South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development, which brought in speakers to address concerns regarding land use, water consumption, and power demands. Residents are actively engaging on the issue, with Wisconsin Rapids scheduled to hold a public hearing on May 4th. Another informational session was planned with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association.