Microsoft's $35M Kenosha Land Buy Sparks Concerns

Microsoft has acquired 240 acres of land in Kenosha, Wisconsin, to build a new data center, following a $35 million investment in the area. The land, rezoned by Kenosha city officials, will accommodate four large single-story data center structures as part of Microsoft's expansion in the region. While local leaders and officials celebrate the economic benefits and job creation potential, some local farmers express concerns about the loss of agricultural land and potential increased tax burdens on residents for infrastructure improvements. Microsoft has already made significant investments in nearby Mount Pleasant, and Governor Tony Evers and Mayor David Bogdala emphasize the long-term economic growth and innovation opportunities for Kenosha. The project underscores a broader trend of tech companies tapping into regional resources but also raises questions about balancing development with community and environmental impacts.