Utah county approves huge data center amid community opposition
News ClipKTEP·UT·5/7/2026
A large data center project, spearheaded by Kevin O'Leary, received approval from county commissioners in a Utah county despite community opposition. The project's progression is contingent on obtaining water rights, a critical issue given the historically low water levels of the Great Salt Lake.
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Gov: County Commissioners
County commissioners in a Utah county have approved a significant data center project backed by "Shark Tank" star Kevin O'Leary. The proposed facility is located north of the Great Salt Lake and has faced considerable community opposition.
Despite the local objections, the commissioners gave the project a "green light" on Monday. This decision allows the project to move forward, though it is not yet fully cleared for construction.
A major hurdle remaining for the data center is the acquisition of necessary water rights. This requirement comes at a sensitive time, as the Great Salt Lake is reportedly nearing a new record low in its water levels, making water usage a significant environmental and public concern.