Referendums filed to challenge Stratos-MIDA Data Center in Box Elder County

Residents of Box Elder County, Utah, have initiated a referendum process to challenge the proposed Stratos-MIDA Data Center project. The group, named Box Elder Accountability Referendum (BEAR), filed two applications to allow voters to decide on the large-scale data center, which would encompass approximately 40,000 acres in the county. The project, championed by investor Kevin O'Leary, has encountered significant local resistance, primarily centered on its potential environmental impact on air quality and water resources in the drought-stricken region. Brenna Williams, lead sponsor of the referendum, stated that residents are overwhelmingly opposed to the development, citing a lack of community involvement and threats to their health and way of life. O'Leary has previously dismissed claims of negative water impact, asserting that the project would not deplete the Great Salt Lake and that alternative cooling methods, like air cooling, are being considered. Utah Governor Spencer Cox, while having previously supported the data center, acknowledged resident concerns and indicated that a full review of the project would be undertaken, emphasizing the need for thoughtful development aligned with Utah values. BEAR is currently awaiting approval to begin collecting signatures for the referendums and is also considering further legal action.