WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – The Wisconsin Rapids planning commission voted 7-0 to deny recommendation on the conditional use permit application by DC Rapids LLC to construct a data center. The vote will now go to the common council on October 20.
Wednesday’s meeting started with a review of the staffing report on the conditional use permit, which came with a recommendation to the planning commission. “Based on all the foregoing findings and grounds set forth in the staff report, staff recommends to deny the conditional use application and site review application,” said Lizebeth Edwardsen, Wisconsin Rapids Associate Planner.
City staff found missing elements in the application, including: approval by the electric utility company, employment and shift projections, spaces proposed, construction traffic details, and general orientation of the buildings.
DC Rapids LLC responded to these claims. “We spent the weekend and overnight developing a very detailed response to how this application and the submittals meet the requirements. We believe that firmly, and we will continue to work with the city on clarification on those conditions,” said Bill Griffith, representative of the applicant.
The public got to hear directly from Anton Voronkin, who submitted the application. Following his remarks came time for public comment; with many citizens calling for a no vote.
“This city has been through enough. You all need to be better, you need to do better. That starts with denying this atrocity of an application. Thank you,” said an emotional Marissa Johnson of the South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development.
Supporters of trade workers called for a yes vote, which raised tension in the crowd. “Please consider the people who may not be standing at this microphone tonight, who want jobs, investment, and a strong economic future for Wisconsin Rapids,” said one community member.
After weighing the city’s recommendation, the response from DC Rapids LLC, and public comment, the planning commission ultimately voted 7-0 to deny the application.
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