Learn About the November Referendum

GM/JATCO Site Referendum

One of the most important issues facing Janesville voters this November is the upcoming referendum concerning future development of the former GM/JATCO site. This referendum could threaten the future of the community we love so dearly. While the debate started out about data centers, the referendum going before the voters is about any type of development over $450M on this site, which includes project costs, transfer of land, and liability costs.

Keep Janesville Working — Vote No!

Grow Janesville Responsibly believes Janesville should remain open to future opportunities that can create jobs, expand the tax base, and transform the former GM/JATCO property into a productive community asset.

We are committed to educating voters about the referendum and encouraging a NO vote in November because we believe the measure will create uncertainty for future redevelopment opportunities and make it more difficult to attract major investment to Janesville.

FAQs

It would forever require voter approval before the City could lease, sell, approve development, or enter into development agreements involving undeveloped portions of the site whenever total project costs exceed $450 million.
If this referendum passes, it will forever require that any development over $450M on the GM site would need voter approval again.  In short, this would practically end any potential private development of the site and deny us the opportunity to return it to the tax rolls. Brownfield sites (former industrial sites) lay barren for decades in communities.
No, while this debate started out about data centers, the referendum language applies very broadly to any $450M development projects at the site, regardless of the industry or use.
Former industrial sites known as brownfield sites are incredibly challenging to develop. This referendum could put a nail in the coffin for redevelopment.  It also could dissuade investment in other places around Janesville due to concerns of similar burdensome hurdles that drive up costs and slow down projects, which ultimately hurts Janesville families and our children’s future.
Some recent announcements provide important context:
●      Eli Lllly $3B manufacturing expansion in Kenosha
●      Kikkoman $560M production facility in Jefferson County
●      Kenosha Harbor District Redevelopment $450M
●      Realta Fusion’s $567M at the former Oscar Mayer HQ
New development adds taxpayers who help share those costs.  Without growth, existing residents often bear a larger share of future expenses. Responsible growth helps keep local government financially sustainable. Growth helps share the burden. Without new investment and new taxpayers, the cost of maintaining our community falls on fewer people.
Growth and opportunity will diminish or stop in Janesville Growth helps spread the cost of community services across a larger tax base, helping reduce pressure on existing residents.
●      Roads, police, fire protection, and infrastructure must be maintained whether a community grows or not.