Port Washington data center, judge upholds voter approval ordinance | FOX6 News Milwaukee
An Ozaukee County judge upheld a voter-approved Port Washington ordinance requiring voter approval for development projects or tax increment districts exceeding $10 million. The ordinance was created in response to a proposed $15 billion data center campus, and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce said it may appeal the ruling.
An Ozaukee County judge upheld a citizen-led ordinance in Port Washington requiring voter approval for future development projects or tax increment districts valued at more than $10 million. Voters approved the measure in response to a proposed $15 billion data center campus under construction in the city.
The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and other business groups sued Port Washington to block the ordinance, arguing it could hurt the city's ability to compete for future investment. The judge ruled that the plaintiffs had not demonstrated sufficient harm and that the ordinance did not exceed the authority of the city council. Supporters said the decision upheld the voice of local voters, while the business group indicated it intends to appeal.