Citizen Arrested: Why does the Port Washington Mayor Fear Data Center Opposition?

On December 2, 2025, in Port Washington, WI, a local resident was forcibly silenced and arrested by law enforcement officers. Her crime? Speaking against the construction of four massive data centers on a sprawling 500-acre plot that Vantage, a corporation, had recently acquired. Her stand has sparked an uproar among the local citizens, leading them to openly discuss a potential recall of Mayor Ted Neitzke.

The acquisition by Vantage saw more than 100 properties change hands, in Port Washington. The local citizen, whose name has been withheld for her protection, voiced her opposition at a Common Council meeting and called for a recall of Mayor Neitzke as she returned to her seat. Her dissent was met with swift and harsh repercussions as she was promptly arrested by the police.

Despite these circumstances, Port Washington residents refuse to be silenced or intimidated. Talking about a recall on Mayor Neitzke, who they believe is selling their future to corporate interests.

Mayor Neitzke's actions and the Port Washington common council's approval of these data centers have clearly struck a nerve with the local populace.