Wisconsin Rapids data center developer wraps up webinars, community still uneasy about project

PNK Group concluded a series of four webinars in August to detail its proposed data center project at the former Wisconsin Rapids mill site and its potential community impact. Despite the developer's efforts to address concerns, including assurances that issues like Wisconsin River water usage and noise pollution would be non-issues, community members, particularly those from the South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development organization, remain skeptical.

Kaitlyn Federwitz, co-founder of the opposition group, stated that they believe PNK Group is "selling a bill of goods that they can't deliver on." The group also expressed distrust regarding a proposed community benefits plan, citing a lack of successfully implemented and enforceable agreements in Wisconsin.

Adding to community unease is the continued involvement of former New York City mayor Eric Adams as an advisor for community engagement, despite his national headlines in 2024 related to bribery, conspiracy, and fraud charges, which were later dismissed. Federwitz called the choice of Adams to "sell this to Wisconsin Rapids" insane given his controversial reputation.

PNK Group acknowledges the mixed community sentiment, with Chief Development Officer Anton Voronkin stating the webinars were productive in answering questions. However, with a public hearing for the company's Conditional Use Permit set for September 16, community trust remains a significant hurdle for the project's approval.