DEFOREST, Wis. (WKOW) — Village leaders in DeForest heard from Alliant Energy Wisconsin President Becky Bach on Tuesday night about the electric grid and what a proposed QTS data center could mean for reliability, rates, and local infrastructure.
Bach told residents the data center would not strain the electric grid or cause outages, noting that state rules require utilities to maintain extra reserve power and that data centers do not receive priority during emergencies. She said rates could still rise due to infrastructure costs, but large customers can help spread those costs.
Village engineers also told the board the project would not overload the sewer system, with the developer paying for any new infrastructure needed.
Later in the meeting, the board voted 5–2 to begin reintroducing fluoride into the water system. Board members discussed conflicting research, costs, and personal choice, with several asking the village to explore options for residents who do not want fluoridated water. A dentist from Madison traveled to speak directly to the board about alternatives.
“One of the things we have to remember is that, unlike development, which involves building buildings or roads, these are things that don’t directly impact someone’s health or autonomy,” said Dr. Chris Kammer, a dentist. “I think we should honor that as a board.”
Original article online at: https://www.wkow.com/news/deforest-board-hears-about-proposed-data-center-votes-to-reintroduce-fluoride/article_8461db99-0e9a-4aaa-8630-e421d0e1ecd1.html