Neighbors split after Port Washington implements new safety plan for city meetings amid data center protests

PORT WASHINGTON, Wis. — Port Washington has implemented a new safety plan for Common Council meetings following widespread protests over a controversial data center project and associated power lines.

The safety measures are already in effect and include more officers designated to meetings and reminders to attendees that decorum must be respected, according to the Port Washington Police Department. The changes come after protesters loudly disrupted recent meetings opposing the data center complex and power lines it will bring to the area.

"I think it's stifling. No question. I feel intimidated," said David Aversa, a Saukville resident whose property sits along one of the proposed power line routes.

Aversa attended recent meetings where protesters voiced opposition to the project. If th