Wisconsin Passes Nation’s First Anti-Data Center Referendum

Port Washington, Wisconsin, has become the first city in the nation to pass a referendum specifically targeting data center construction. Unofficial results from Ozaukee County indicate that approximately 66% of voters supported the measure. As a direct result of this approval, all future large-scale data center developments within Port Washington that seek tax benefits will now be mandated to secure direct approval from local voters. This decision by Port Washington mirrors a growing nationwide trend of local community opposition to data center projects. The key concerns driving this opposition include potential increases in electricity prices, substantial water usage, and various other environmental impacts associated with these energy-intensive facilities.