What to Know Before the July 16 Public Hearing

Public hearings exist for one important reason:

They allow residents to become part of the official record before major decisions are made.

If you are planning to attend the July 16 Public Service Commission hearing regarding the Foundry Ridge Energy Center, here are a few things worth knowing before you arrive.

You don’t need to be an expert

You are not expected to understand every technical detail contained in the Environmental Impact Statement. (Click the button below if you want to review the final EIS statement for Foundry Ridge.)

The Commission also needs to hear how this proposal could affect the people who live, work, farm, raise families, and own businesses here.

Your perspective matters.

Speak from your own experience

The most meaningful testimony is often the most personal.

Consider discussing:

• Why you care about your community

• How this project could affect your family

• Environmental concerns

• Agricultural impacts

• Wildlife

• Health

• Property

• Community planning

• Why cumulative impacts should be considered

Authentic experiences are often more compelling than repeating technical reports.

Keep your comments respectful

Strong public participation does not require anger.

The goal is to create a thoughtful public record that helps decision-makers understand community concerns.

Respectful comments are often the most persuasive.

Written comments still matter

If you cannot attend the hearing, you can still submit a written comment to the Public Service Commission.

Written comments become part of the official record and are considered alongside hearing testimony.

(Please note: the PSC generally accepts either hearing testimony or a written comment from each individual for the same docket rather than duplicate comments.)

This is one decision in a much larger conversation

Regardless of the outcome of this project, Wisconsin communities are likely to face additional proposals involving energy infrastructure, data centers, transmission, and related development.

Learning how to participate now helps strengthen public involvement in future decisions as well.

EVA encourages every resident to stay informed, participate respectfully, and help shape the future of our communities. If you’d like to learn more about writing your comment or preparing to speak, visit EVA’s PSC Comment Guide for more information.