Commissioners OK controversial data center proposal for Box Elder County in northern Utah

Box Elder County commissioners unanimously approved two resolutions for the controversial Stratos Project Area, a massive data center proposal by Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O'Leary and O'Leary Digital. The decision, made at a contentious meeting, allows the project to proceed despite strong local opposition. Commissioners Tyler Vincent and Lee Perry emphasized the project's potential for job creation, economic development, and its strategic importance for national security. Opponents, including residents like Joy Beightol and groups such as Indivisible Ogden, voiced concerns about the data center's potential to deplete water resources, further stressing the Great Salt Lake, and demanded an environmental study. They protested both before and during the meeting, which was so disruptive that commissioners moved to a private room. Thor Dorosh indicated that opponents are considering legal action against the project, vowing to continue their fight. The long-range plans envision data centers across 40,000 acres in Box Elder County, supported by 7.5-9 gigawatts of power, likely from natural gas plants. O'Leary spokesman Casey Hill highlighted the project's national security benefits, aiding the U.S. military's AI and cloud capabilities, and stated that investment is secured, with the overall project estimated at $1 billion. State leaders, including Utah Governor Spencer Cox, House Speaker Mike Schultz, and Senate President Stuart Adams, have expressed support, with the Utah Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) also shepherding the project. Commissioner Perry noted that the land is currently unzoned and the approval is just the beginning of a process that will involve continuous oversight, permitting, and regulatory review, with future town hall meetings planned to address public concerns.