LETTER: Vantage Port data center is a boon for local companies

To Ozaukee Press:

I’ve lived in Port Washington for 33 years and have operated my business here for nearly three decades. I care deeply about this community, and I’m proud to say the Lighthouse data center project has had a real and positive impact on my company and our employees.

Sid’s Sealants employs more than 30 Wisconsinites, many from Port Washington and the surrounding area. We specialize in air barriers, waterproofing and sealants, and our work on the Lighthouse data center includes everything from vapor and air barriers to caulking and sealants. The project has provided significant work for our company and good-paying jobs for our employees, who spend a good portion of their wages right here in our local economy.

I also understand why a development of this size raises questions. Port Washington is a special community, and we all want to preserve what makes it a great place to live and work. But in the years I’ve lived here, I’ve also watched Port Washington change. Some of the industries and jobs that once supported our community have unfortunately dried up. I believe it’s important that we recognize responsible opportunities that bring new work and long-term investment to our area while maintaining the character of our community.

The reality is that email, cloud storage, streaming, social media, business technology and AI all require data infrastructure. None of that is going away. These facilities are going to be built, and I’m glad Wisconsin businesses and Wisconsin workers can be part of building them.

Sid Arthur

Port Washington