Racine Co. residents oppose Microsoft data center air pollution control permit application during DNR hearing

Racine County residents are actively opposing Microsoft's air pollution control permit applications for its data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. During a virtual public hearing hosted by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on Tuesday, approximately 50 attendees, including representatives from Microsoft and Racine County Executive Ralph Malicki, voiced strong concerns. The DNR has made a preliminary determination to approve the permits, stating that the proposed modifications, which involve additional and larger fire pumps and changes to fuel usage and emission limits, would have a "minimal" impact on air pollution and would not alter the facility's status as a minor pollutant source. However, residents like Tony Martino of Mount Pleasant and Gloria Randall-Hewitt of Racine expressed apprehension. Martino feared that while the current permit's effect might be small, cumulative pollution from future data center expansions would be substantial. Randall-Hewitt criticized Microsoft's use of diesel fuel for fire pumps, arguing it contradicts the company's renewable energy pledges and contributes to already poor air quality in Southeast Wisconsin, a designated nonattainment zone by the EPA. Other residents, including Amanda Bengston, raised procedural concerns about the short notice for the meeting and limited time to review the permit details. The public hearing was requested by the Villages of Mount Pleasant and Sturtevant. DNR representatives confirmed they will review all public comments and prepare a memo before rendering a final decision on Microsoft's permit applications.