Town of Turtle approves cost reimbursement agreement after packed meeting (7/8/26)

(7/8/26) The Town of Turtle Board voted 3-2 Wednesday night to approve a cost reimbursement agreement with Panattoni Development for its proposed data center project after more than 100 residents packed the meeting. The agreement does not approve the data center, but allows the town to recover costs associated with reviewing the proposal. Supporters, including union members, construction workers, and Rock Road Companies, said the project could create lasting careers. “These are careers that will allow people to stay in the area, raise families here and contribute to the community long term,” one construction worker said. Many residents urged the board to slow down, arguing the agreement moves the project one step closer to becoming reality. “This is not what the people of this township want,” said Bill Perkins. Rock County Neighbors for Responsible Development co-lead Shelley Strommen asked officials and community members to “Imagine losing the peaceful enjoyment of your own home.” Before the vote, Supervisor Tim Sanders acknowledged the difficult decision, saying, “If we turn our backs, we have no seat… It’s about what’s right for Turtle.” A motion to delay the agreement failed before the board approved it 3-2.