Menomonie Council Person Brennan on data center proposal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2025

Alderperson Sydney Brennan Addresses Annexation and Rezoning Concerns Along CTH B (650th–690th Ave)

There has been growing concern in the community regarding the proposed annexation and potential development of land between 650th and 690th Avenue. I want to take a moment to share what I know, clarify where things currently stand, and help address some of the confusion surrounding the process and what may happen next.

First, I want to acknowledge the frustration many have expressed about the lack of transparency. Part of this stems from the fact that, so far, the only formal action the Council has taken is to consider annexing land into the city, at the request of the landowner. That request was referred to the Plan Commission for review and recommendation at the last Council meeting on 07/07/2025.

Today, the Council will enter closed session to discuss the following item:

a) Motion to convene in closed session under Wisconsin Statutes 19.85(1)(e) for the purpose of deliberating or negotiating the purchasing of public properties, the investing of public funds, or conducting other specified public business whenever competitive or bargaining reasons require a closed session.

i) Discuss and consider a proposed Development Agreement with Balloonist LLC.

During this session, I will express that this remains an active discussion and that the Council is not yet ready to make a final decision.

To be clear, there has been no vote or agreement confirming that a data center will be built. That decision is still under discussion. The land in question is already designated in our city’s comprehensive plan as part of the Technology and Industrial Park. Regardless of the specific project, the land is not intended to remain agricultural but to support industrial or tech development.

To support informed consideration of a potential development, the company currently expressing interest in the land arranged individual meetings with each council member. These meetings were intended to give us time to ask questions, voice concerns, and fully understand the proposal before it comes to a public vote. This gave me time to do independent research, come prepared with questions, and reflect on what this development could mean for Menomonie.

In my meeting, I raised concerns about water use, energy demand, and environmental impact. The business represented by Balloonist LLC responded with detailed information, which helped ease some of my concerns. While I believe these issues still warrant public discussion, I left the meeting feeling more reassured. I will raise these points again during the council meeting to ensure they are addressed on the record.

The proposed type of land use aligns with our city’s long term comprehensive plan. It is also standard industry practice for companies to use LLCs like Balloonist during early stages of site planning and negotiation.

Regarding concerns about transparency, I want to acknowledge how challenging it has become to keep residents informed in the absence of consistent local journalism. Without reliable news coverage in Dunn County, it is increasingly difficult for local officials to share accurate and timely information. This is why we often rely on social media and informal channels to communicate directly with the public.

I remain committed to open dialogue and welcome continued input from residents. If you have questions, concerns, or would like to talk more about this issue, I am always available and happy to have that conversation.

Sydney Brennan Alderperson, Ward 9