Towns in Manitowoc County are trying to put a pause on any AI data center in their area.
The Towns of Two Creeks, Two Rivers, and Mishicot have adopted a resolution that places a one-year moratorium on any development of a data center, which could be extended for an additional six months if they choose.
The Town of Mishicot also wants research on the environmental and economic effects of AI data centers and on establishing consistent zoning or regulatory standards to be applied to buildings in Manitowoc County.
In the resolution, town officials explain that they have concerns that the construction and operation of data centers will “result in overburdening of public services and infrastructure in Manitowoc County, including electrical and water utilities, along with fire emergency services.”
They are also concerned that the potential secondary impacts of the centers’ construction and operation could affect property values and roads in the area.
Town of Mishicot Chairman Dean Anhalt said during a meeting earlier this month that they’ve been talking about the AI data centers since December.
Landowners have also said they’ve been approached by companies to purchase their land for a data center development.
