Kenosha residents protest proposed Microsoft data center over environmental and utility cost concerns

Kenosha, Wisconsin residents and local organizations are actively opposing a proposed Microsoft data center, voicing their concerns at a recent Common Council meeting. Protesters cited potential issues such as increased traffic, noise, and air and water pollution, along with a fear of rising energy costs for consumers. This public outcry follows the state of Wisconsin and the City of Kenosha's announcement last year regarding the sale of approximately 240 acres of land to Microsoft for the development. Residents, including Sage Holloway, expressed frustration over a lack of transparent and up-to-date information regarding the project, despite the Common Council having already voted on a tax district for the development. Holloway emphasized that the community believes it is not too late to stop the project and highlighted that the power ultimately rests with the people. Scarlette Sikora, a Racine County resident living near an existing Microsoft data center in Mount Pleasant, shared her experience with alleged price hikes from We Energies, contradicting the utility company's statements. We Energies, however, reaffirmed its customer protection plan, assuring that data center costs would not be shifted to other customers. Microsoft also issued a statement, asserting its commitment to environmental protection, local jobs, public health, and positive community contributions. The Kenosha Common Council confirmed that a final development plan has not yet been submitted for the proposed data center, and no related items were on the agenda for the Monday night meeting. Despite this, residents brought their concerns forward to press for greater transparency before any final decisions are made.