Caledonia plan commission approves re-zoning that could allow Microsoft data center to move forward

CALEDONIA, Wis. (CBS 58) – After nearly three hours of public comment, the Caledonia plan commission voted to approve a plan to rezone 244 acres of land that Microsoft identified as a site for a new possible data center.

Dozens of people spoke during public comment. The overwhelming majority were against the plan.

Re-zoning the proposed site to light industrial use would allow construction to move forward if the full board approves it.

The overflow crowd stood shoulder-to-shoulder as representatives from the builder, economic organizations, and Microsoft laid out the plan, including the 300-400 construction jobs that would be created and the economic impacts.

Microsoft maintained the project would be a benefit to Caledonia and said they're committed to working with the community.

But the crowd got antsy over time, after waiting two hours for public comment to start. One person, who did eventually speak, joked his legs were numb from standing for so long.

A few times, Village President Tom Weatherston was sharp with the crowd, telling them to stay quiet during the presentations.

At times during the five hour meeting there were standing ovations, heated words, and a few outbursts.

There were speakers in support of the plan, though most were from local economic organizations.

"This is the most impactful decision," said Ray Leffler, a local builder. "Jobs, growth, good as you get."

Most of the opposition focused on the desire to keep Caledonia rural and undeveloped, despite any perceived financial benefits. "We have a responsibility to the surrounding areas and the Great Lakes," said Gail Kura, who's opposed to the development plan.

One of the speakers who signed up was trustee Fran Martin. Not a member of the plan commission, she signed up from the audience.

Weatherston said it was inappropriate for her to speak but the crowd was loudly critical of his comments.

Martin said she wasn't opposed to the plan yet but had concerns. "Tonight, what I'm urging us to do is to become fully informed, wait until we have more information, and then vote," Martin said.

After public comment, the commission took a brief recess. Upon returning Weatherston explained the members of the commission were appointed, not elected, and he felt it was most fair to have the elected officials decide the issue. That, Weatherston, explained, was why he wanted to approve the plan.

But two other members objected, saying it was their job to get answers, not to simply pass along issues.

Ultimately, it was a simple and uneventful vote, 5-2 in favor.

Microsoft declined to have representatives take questions from reporters. A spokesperson handed out a printed statement that said in part, "We are eager to work together with neighbors in Caledonia to build a project that reflects the values and priorities important here - including those related to the character of the community and the natural resources that are precious here."

The full Caledonia Village Board will debate the issue at the October 14 meeting.