Forum held to discuss questions on Stratos Project
Residents in Tremonton, Box Elder County, held a panel discussion to address concerns about the recently approved Stratos Project data center. Community groups are mobilizing opposition efforts, including a potential referendum and a lawsuit if signature gathering approval is denied.
A panel discussion was held in Tremonton, Box Elder County, allowing residents to hear from experts and voice their questions regarding the proposed Stratos Project data center. Organizers stated their intent was to foster a constructive approach after the county commission greenlit the project last month amidst a heated discussion.
Approximately 140 to 150 people attended the forum, which featured speakers from groups such as Glow the Flow, the Box Elder Accountability Referendum (Bear), Stewardship Utah, and USU physics professor Rob Davies. These panelists expressed significant concerns over the project's unprecedented nature and its rapid approval process. Organizers highlighted strong local, state, and nationwide engagement as positively influencing local leaders, noting that the project's rollout did not align with "the Utah way" as articulated by an attendee, Kevin Olirri.
The event provided a sense of hope and direction for many attendees, with significant support for Bear's efforts to initiate a referendum. The group is awaiting a decision on Thursday regarding their ability to gather signatures for this initiative. Discussions also touched upon the influence of the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA), which will oversee the project. Bear has indicated that if approval to gather signatures is not granted, they intend to pursue a lawsuit.