The city of Port Washington approved a referendum on Apr. 9 that will require taxpayer approval for future projects worth more than $10 million before they can be added to a tax increment district.
The measure, which comes in response to concerns over a major artificial intelligence data center project, passed with 2,710 votes in favor and 1,371 against. More than half of the city’s 8,257 registered voters participated in the election.
Supporters say the initiative gives residents more control over how their tax dollars are used. “Tonight, democracy worked the way it’s supposed to,” said Christine Le Jeune, a member of Great Lakes Neighbors Incorporated. “Over 1,000 residents signed the petition that put this measure on the ballot, and tonight Port Washington voters spoke with one clear voice. The people deserve a seat at the table when their tax dollars are on the line.”
The push for greater oversight follows plans for an $8 billion data center expected to receive over $450 million in property tax breaks and exemptions from state sales taxes on construction materials and equipment. The facility is projected to use as much electricity as Los Angeles once fully operational.
Data centers have faced skepticism among Wisconsin residents; according to a recent Marquette poll cited during discussions about the referendum, 69% believe that such facilities’ costs outweigh their benefits.
Political figures have also weighed in on the issue. Congressman Tom Tiffany pledged to end subsidies for data centers if elected governor. Comedian Charlie Berens has spoken publicly about transparency concerns related to these projects and supported legislation aimed at limiting non-disclosure agreements at data centers—a bill that did not pass before legislative session ended.
Public meetings regarding these developments have been contentious at times. In December, Le Jeune and two other members of Great Lakes Neighbors United were removed by police from a meeting after exceeding time limits during public comment.
