Data center education in Wisconsin Rapids

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WFHR / WIRI) – The South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development may have formed hastily towards the end of April, but the group is picking up steam. They held their third event this week at 17Sixteen to raise awareness about data centers.

These events are taking place after the City of Wisconsin Rapids slowed the process on a data center agreement. It was proposed on the old Kraft Mill site.

Recap of events

• In 2024, a data center project was proposed by Digital Power Optimization (DPO). The city was informed about the agreement between two private companies by a press release. They were informed again by a press release from DPO in 2025 when the contract was canceled.

• The Wisconsin Rapids Common Council passed an ordinance targeting data centers earlier this spring. Alderperson Madalyn Palmquist explained this new ordinance gives the Planning Commission more control over approving one or not.

• A public hearing announced for May 4 regarding a conditional use permit (CUP) submitted by a data center company, PCH WI Holdings LLC.

• The South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development formed and quickly organized an information session on April 29. They invited guests who have expertise, experience, or interest in educating about data centers, including Charlie Berens. More than 400 residents attended, including local government officials as reported by WFHR.

• The city decided to defer the May 4 Public Hearing. They stopped any action on the CUP submitted by PCH WI Holdings LLC.

• Mayor Matt Zacher spoke with Melissa Kaye on Perspective on May 20. He gave an update on what is happening with the data center project from the city’s purview.

• The city published a website on May 26 with information on the papermill redevelopment and data center review. They are encouraging people to sign up for meeting notifications.

• SWCNRD has held three events at 17Sixteen to distribute information on data centers and distribute swag and yard signs. The handouts are free. There’s a suggested donation amount for other items.

Town hall meeting not scheduled yet

The City of Wisconsin Rapids is currently gathering information from both residents and the potential developer. According to their website, the city plans to hold a town hall meeting to hear from residents with questions and concerns. They’re learning more from PCH WI Holdings to help answer questions during the upcoming town hall meeting. The city encourages residents to sign up for meeting notifications to stay informed of upcoming meetings, city events, and press releases.