Forum to examine pros and cons of data centers — and how to recognize one when you see it
Bayfield County officials are organizing an informational forum in Ashland, Wisconsin, to discuss the implications of data center development, focusing on local energy and water resources. The county is also undergoing a comprehensive zoning ordinance rewrite, intending to incorporate regulations for large-scale data centers. While no data centers are currently proposed for Bayfield County, the initiative aims to raise awareness and prepare the community for potential future developments.
Bayfield County officials are proactively addressing the potential impacts of data center development on local communities, particularly in rural northwest Wisconsin. County Administrator Mark Abeles-Alison and Deputy County Administrator Kelly Westlund spoke with WPR's Robin Washington about an upcoming informational session on July 28 at the Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland. The session, coordinated by the University of Wisconsin Extension, will explore the pros and cons of data centers, including concerns over water use and energy demands.
While Bayfield County currently has no data center permit applications, the officials emphasize the importance of understanding how such facilities could affect local infrastructure and community character. Westlund highlighted that Bayfield County is in the midst of a comprehensive zoning ordinance rewrite, with plans to incorporate specific language and regulations pertaining to large-scale data centers. This proactive approach aims to ensure the county is prepared for future land use decisions and can establish community benefit agreements.
The discussion also touched on how other communities, such as Superior, Wisconsin, and Hermantown, Minnesota, have responded to data center proposals, including the use of moratoriums to buy time for due diligence. Abeles-Alison noted that northern Wisconsin's energy infrastructure might not be immediately suitable for large data centers. Both officials stressed the importance of community questions regarding fire safety, water system impact, and energy needs, inviting residents and local leaders to attend the session and provide feedback on the new ordinance draft set for public comment on August 14.