Rapid City debates data center regulation amid EPA rule changes and tech company influence
Rapid City, South Dakota is debating the impact of energy-intensive data centers, with local leaders proposing new ordinances to ensure public input on future projects. This local pushback follows an EPA proposal that would eliminate public notification requirements for air pollution permits for minor industrial facilities, including data centers. Concerns about environmental transparency, local control, and the influence of tech company campaign funding, such as over $500,000 from a Meta-backed PAC, are central to the debate.
Rapid City, South Dakota, is at the center of a debate concerning the proliferation of energy-hungry data centers, fueled by a proposed federal regulatory change and significant tech industry campaign contributions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering a proposal, first reported by the Associated Press, to remove a federal requirement for states to notify the public and seek feedback before issuing air pollution permits for minor industrial facilities, including data centers. While federal proponents argue this streamlines the process for U.S. AI competitiveness, local critics warn it could leave communities uninformed about environmental impacts.
In response, Rapid City leaders are moving to establish local regulatory safeguards. Vicki Fisher, Rapid City's Community Development Director, highlighted potential issues with water, sewer, electricity, noise, and vibration from data centers. Rapid City Council President Stephen Tamang announced that a new municipal ordinance is expected within the next month, which would mandate public hearings and city council votes for any future data center proposals. Tamang expressed strong personal reservations, stating that large-scale data centers are not currently welcome in Rapid City from his perspective.
The discussion extends to the influence of corporate money in politics. Independent U.S. Senate candidate Brian Bengs pointed to campaign finance disclosures showing that the "Forge the Future Project," a PAC backed by Meta, injected over $500,000 into seventeen South Dakota legislative races. Anthony Mirzayants, a political organizer from Sioux Falls, echoed concerns that data centers often demand tax breaks and special privileges, prompting local activation. Minnehaha County Commissioner Cole Heisey articulated support for data centers that bring real investment and jobs without burdening local families with higher utility bills, straining water resources, or ignoring community concerns about power and noise, advocating for growth that is accountable to the community.