Wisconsin Rapids denies data center permit after months-long battle
Wisconsin Rapids’ Common Council denied PNK Group’s conditional use permit for a proposed data center at a former paper mill site after months of public opposition. The city’s 12-month data center moratorium is now in effect, giving officials time to revise development rules.
Wisconsin Rapids’ Common Council voted to deny PNK Group’s conditional use permit for a data center planned at the former paper mill site. The city’s planning committee had recommended denial, citing missing information, while PNK Group attorney Jacob Steen argued that the company had satisfied the city’s requirements and asked officials to approve or remand the application.
The decision followed substantial local opposition led by Kaitlyn Federwitz and the South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development group. Mayor Matt Zacher said the denial, combined with a 12-month moratorium that has taken effect, will give the city time to update its ordinances and determine how to regulate future data center proposals. District 7 Alderperson Michael Timm also faces a recall election connected to allegations involving anti-data-center signs.