Wisconsin Rapids Plan Commission Rejects Data Center Permit, Mayor Backs Moratorium
Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Matt Zacher supports a one-year moratorium on data center construction amidst intensifying controversy. The city's plan commission unanimously rejected a conditional use permit for PNK Group's proposed 200-acre data center, with the decision now moving to the city council along with the moratorium proposal. A majority of public comments opposed the project.
Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Matt Zacher has expressed support for a one-year moratorium on data center construction in the city, citing a need for a more proactive approach to development. Speaking on WISN 12's "UPFRONT," Zacher highlighted the lack of a clear "playbook" for handling such projects, suggesting the city feels ill-equipped for the complexities of data center negotiations.
The controversy centers around a proposed 200-acre data center project by New York-based PNK Group, planned for the city's former paper mill site. Last week, the Wisconsin Rapids Plan Commission unanimously rejected PNK Group's conditional use permit, following over three hours of public comment, largely from residents and officials opposing the development. The commission's recommendation, along with a separate proposal for a one-year data center moratorium, will now be considered by the full city council. GOP State Rep. Scott Krug, who represents Wisconsin Rapids, was among those who publicly opposed the project, emphasizing the desire for local labor but stating this specific project was not the right fit for the community.