$1,380 for data center public records

A Janesville activist group, identified as Midwest environmental activists, is encountering a significant obstacle in its quest for transparency regarding proposed data center developments within the city. The group was quoted a fee of over $1,300 by the City of Janesville to access public records related to companies pitching data center projects, specifically for the former General Motors site. News3 Now's Marin Rosen reported that the group submitted its request in September but received the cost estimate in October. Legal counsel for the Midwest environmental activists contends that this fee may contravene state law, which mandates that charges for public records reflect the compensation of the lowest-paid qualified employee. The city, however, maintains that its fee calculation adheres to standard procedures, including staff time. Advocates emphasize that the city has the discretion to waive such fees if releasing the records serves the public interest. The group is now publicly calling for a fee waiver and the immediate release of the requested documents. The City of Janesville has indicated that it is in ongoing communication with the group's legal counsel regarding the request, with further updates on the legal implications of this delay expected.