Kenosha Residents Call for Halt on Microsoft's Data Center Plans

Residents in Kenosha County are pushing for a pause on Microsoft's data center development plans, citing concerns over energy and water demand, noise levels, and environmental impacts. The group 'Kenoshans Unite Against Microsoft Data Center' is leading the effort against the project, which began in 2025 when Microsoft acquired 240 acres of land in Mount Pleasant.

The group's main objection is that local officials have not fully informed residents about Microsoft's plans for the area. In January, the Mount Pleasant village board approved site plans for up to 15 more data centers that could be built over the next decade.

A 315-acre data center in Mount Pleasant has already been completed and is operational, with a second facility under construction on adjacent land.