Harwood mayor reveals millions in projected tax revenue for Fargo Public Schools from Applied Digital data center
Harwood Mayor Blake Hankey said Applied Digital's two-building data center development could generate about $4.36 million annually for Fargo Public Schools and roughly $1.65 million for Harwood once completed. Construction is underway, but the project is facing traffic and public-service challenges, while available electrical capacity currently supports only about one and a half of the planned buildings.
Harwood Mayor Blake Hankey outlined the projected financial benefits of Applied Digital's data center development, saying Fargo Public Schools could receive approximately $4.36 million in annual property tax revenue beginning in 2028, with Harwood expected to receive about $1.65 million. The project is located in Harwood but falls within Fargo Public Schools' taxing jurisdiction. Two buildings are planned, although Hankey said the area currently has enough power for only about one and a half facilities.
Construction has progressed since work began in September 2025, with at least one building enclosed and interior work underway. Residents have raised concerns about traffic, public safety, litter and the broader effects of the project, while supporters point to tax revenue and increased business activity. Harwood voters rejected a proposed Home Rule Charter amendment by a wide margin, but Hankey said the vote was not a direct referendum on data centers and maintained that welcoming the development was the right decision for the city.