In a surprising turn of events, Wisconsin Rapids Alder Michael Timm faces a recall election instigated by residents after an email he sent to a local business sparked controversy. The situation has its roots in an ongoing debate over a proposed data center on the site of a historic paper mill, a topic that has sharply divided community opinion.
Data centers have become a hot-button issue in Wisconsin Rapids, especially after a developer expressed interest in transforming the former paper mill site into such a facility. Local opposition has been vocal, leading to crowded community meetings and policy reevaluations. The controversy heightened in July when a local bar began distributing “No Data Center” signs, prompting Timm to email the establishment, suggesting the signs were unpopular and claiming they had previously caused a business to close.
In August, the data center developer hosted a forum led by former NYC Mayor Eric Adams, which quickly turned chaotic with attendees heckling the speaker. Recently, the city’s planning commission unanimously recommended denying the developer a conditional use permit for the project. This decision further fueled opposition and led to calls for Timm’s resignation when his email became public.
Kaitlyn Federwitz, co-founder of the South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development, is at the forefront of the recall effort. The group advocates against the data center and is responsible for the “No Data Center” signs. Federwitz cited Timm’s email to Hotel Mead as a catalyst for the recall initiative.
Timm’s Response to Allegations
Timm defended his actions, stating, “There was no threat, no demand, no ultimatum, and no suggestion of any consequence if (Hotel Mead) declined” to stop distributing the signs. It was simply my opinion.” He clarified that he used personal email for the correspondence but identified himself as an alder and Chamber of Commerce member.
The recall process involves a primary on October 27, with a potential recall election on November 24. If no primary is needed, District 7 voters will decide Timm’s fate on October 27. Timm, who was elected unopposed in 2025, has stated he will not resign, citing the unnecessary cost to taxpayers and ongoing harassment.
Federwitz claimed that Timm has engaged with the community on data center issues in an unprofessional manner, often responding on social media in a combative tone. The Neighbors group observed Timm frequently interacting with local data center discussions online.
In the email chain released by Timm, he warned Hotel Mead that the signs might alienate patrons, adding, “While I remain neutral on the issue, I know several people that won’t be going in there knowing this is going on.” The hotel’s general manager, Tucker Christensen, acknowledged the concerns and admitted he was opposed to selling the signs, a decision made by the hotel’s owners.
Despite the controversy, Hotel Mead hosted an open house for the data center developer on September 13. Timm reiterated his respect for the business’s autonomy, stating, “Businesses have every right to decide what they sell on their own property.” The recall was approved with 252 signatures, as the local council voted 6-0, with one abstention.
