Wisconsin Rapids Public Hearing for Data Center's Conditional Use Permit Deferred
Friday, May 1st, 2026 -- 8:01 AM
The City of Wisconsin Rapids public hearing for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a data center, scheduled for May 4 at 4:00 p.m. within the Council Chambers at City Hall, has been deferred.
Due to the project's specific industry (data centers), size, and location, as well as the importance of conscientious planning for City growth and development, the City has decided to postpone any action on the data center CUP request.
To support meaningful communication between the City and the community, and shared understanding of the project’s scope, the City will schedule a listening session to provide project information and respond to questions.
The date and time have not yet been determined. Details will be posted on the City’s website: www.wirapids.gov The CUP request may be considered at a future Planning Commission meeting, which would include a public hearing, and will be noticed appropriately.
Mayor Matt Zacher said, “In a democratic, market-based system, it’s essential that all potential businesses have access to a transparent and equitable review process. We also have an obligation to maintain ordinances that safeguard residents’ quality of life and to thoughtfully address the concerns they share with us. Taking additional time to distribute and review information regarding the CUP, as well as to facilitate a public listening session, allows us to meet that obligation.”
View the CUP application materials (please note that this application may be updated or revised before it is reviewed at a Planning Commission meeting): www.wirapids.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2708/CUP-Application-for-Data-Center-2026-04-24.
View the adopted City ordinance regarding data centers: www.wirapids.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2706/MC-1415-Ordinance-Amendment---Data-Centers-PDF. Subscribe to City of Wisconsin Rapids meeting notifications: www.wirapids.gov/list.aspx.
Questions regarding the CUP process can be directed to:
Kyle Kearns
Community Development Director
715-421-8225
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.