Hermantown data center vote: Council moves project forward
The Hermantown City Council voted to move forward with a proposed Google data center after months of debate and strong public opposition. Opponents criticized the project and the council’s handling of the proposal, while supporters said it could bring economic growth.
The Hermantown City Council advanced a proposed Google data center at a special meeting Friday following about four hours of public comment. Hundreds of people gathered outside City Hall, while attendance inside the chambers was limited to 85 people. Most speakers opposed the project, and three people were removed after exceeding their allotted speaking time.
The proposal had been delayed earlier in the week after protesters disrupted a meeting at which council members were expected to approve it. Opponents are seeking more information about Google’s plans and have criticized the council’s process, while supporters argue the facility would provide economic benefits to Hermantown. The latest vote moved the project ahead but did not clearly establish final approval.