Hermantown approves Google data center despite protests
The Hermantown City Council voted unanimously late Friday, October 30, to approve a special use permit and a development agreement for a 1.7 million-square-foot Google data center on a site just outside Duluth, after a meeting originally set for Monday was shut down by protesters. Most public speakers opposed it; supporters cited jobs, tax revenue and a $210 million decommissioning agreement. Three lawsuits are pending.
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Why it matters
The vote clears the last major local approvals for a 1.7 million-square-foot Google data center just outside Duluth. Supporters point to jobs and about 3 million dollars a year in property tax revenue; opponents raise concerns about nearby trout streams and private wells.
What to watch
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission must still approve an electric service agreement between Google and Minnesota Power, and three lawsuits remain pending.
Sources
- MPR News: Hermantown approves controversial Google data center during late night meeting
- Duluth News Tribune: Despite protest, Hermantown grants data center key permit
- FOX 9: Hermantown data center vote: Council moves project forward
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