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Residents in DeForest, Wisconsin, are voicing concerns over QTS's proposed annexation of 1,700 acres for an AI data center in the Town of Vienna. A petition signed by over 1,000 residents seeks to require referendums for any land annexation over 30 acres or costing more than $10 million.

Concurrently, Rep. Shannon Zimmerman and Sen. Romaine Quinn introduced legislation to enhance state oversight of data center projects.

This bill mandates the Public Service Commission to prevent utility cost increases for customers due to data center construction and requires on-site renewable energy facilities. Additionally, it stipulates that water used for cooling must be contained in a closed-loop system.

QTS estimates the development would generate $1.2 billion in assessed value over four years. The village board did not act on the petition, citing legal concerns.