Wisconsin Rapids data center proposal on hold pending permit review
A data center proposal by PCH Wisconsin Holdings for a former mill site in Wisconsin Rapids is currently on hold. The company is navigating new conditional use permit requirements established by a recently passed data center ordinance. City officials are taking a cautious approach and plan to hold a town hall meeting after gathering more information.
PCH Wisconsin Holdings' proposed data center at the former Wisconsin Rapids mill site is currently on hold as the company navigates new permit requirements. Mayor Matt Zacher indicated that the company paused its land purchase plans after learning about a recently passed city ordinance. This ordinance now mandates a conditional use permit for data centers, a requirement PCH Wisconsin Holdings is in the process of fulfilling by submitting the necessary paperwork.
The city has engaged outside legal counsel to assist with the complexities of the permitting process for the large-scale project. While the proposed data center would occupy a portion of 220 available acres and use less water than the former mill, Mayor Zacher expressed a balanced perspective, stating he is neither fully for nor against data centers but focused on the city's infrastructure and residents' welfare. Officials are preparing to schedule a town hall meeting to provide more information to the public before a final decision is made.