MANITOWOC – Rumors of companies building large-scale data centers have plagued residents since the end of 2025, so much so that almost 400 people replied to our question, “What do you think about a data center coming to Manitowoc County?”
Many other stories about the rumors of a data center also garnered dozens of comments with readers split over whether one would be welcome in Manitowoc County.
Two Rivers rejects data center plan as questions persist
Two Rivers City Manager Kyle Kordell said the city received a proposal for a data center within city limits, but leaders turned it down.
“We took a close look early on and it became clear fairly quickly that large-scale data centers are not a good fit for Two Rivers,” he said.
Tyler Martell, Manitowoc County Board chairman and the sole candidate for county executive in the spring election, said he is not aware of Manitowoc County being approached with any proposals for a data center.
While there has been no confirmation of a data center coming to Manitowoc County, residents have had plenty to say about it.
Manitowoc County residents split over data center concerns, potential benefits
Many residents oppose the idea of a data center taking up precious farmland in a county that heavily depends on the agriculture business.
Many also believe a data center could cause electricity and other utility bills to rise as a result of increased demand.
Many others believe data centers are just a cost of technology moving forward. They say the county could benefit from the money that would be paid in construction costs and taxes. Additional jobs may also be created with the data center.
Here’s a sample of the comments readers have shared about data centers:
Alisa M. Schafer is a reporter for the Herald Times Reporter in Manitowoc County. She can be reached by email at aschafer@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: ‘Hell no’ to ‘AI has to go somewhere’ — Manitowoc on data centers
Reporting by Alisa M. Schafer, Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter / Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter
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