UW-Parkside hosts public forum on AI data center impact
UW-Parkside hosted a public forum in Kenosha about the potential local impacts of AI data centers. Residents and panelists raised concerns about water use, electricity costs, environmental effects and affordability, while a related update noted that Microsoft waived a development incentive for its Mount Pleasant data center, returning nearly $5 million to the village.
Students at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside hosted a two-hour forum in Kenosha to discuss the potential effects of AI data centers on surrounding communities. Residents, elected officials, technology workers, state leaders and environmental groups discussed water consumption, electrical infrastructure, jobs, environmental impacts and the possibility that construction and utility costs could be passed to consumers.
State Rep. Ben DeSmidt said affordability was a primary concern, while statewide data center organizer Sarah Zarling described residents’ negative experiences near construction. The discussion took place amid concerns about a proposed Kenosha-area data center. The report also noted that Microsoft waived a development incentive tied to its Mount Pleasant data center, returning nearly $5 million to the village.