A tale of two data centers: Google hosts events in to woo residents of Hermantown and Pine Island

A tale of two data centers: Google hosts events in to woo residents of Hermantown and Pine Island

News ClipMPR News·Hermantown, St. Louis County, MN·8/20/2026

Google is holding events in Hermantown and Pine Island, Minnesota, to address community concerns regarding its proposed data center developments in those areas. The events aim to mitigate local opposition and smooth over issues related to the tech giant's plans.

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Google is actively engaging with residents in Hermantown and Pine Island, Minnesota, hosting events aimed at addressing community concerns regarding its proposed data center developments. The events follow reported "ruffled feathers" among locals over the tech giant's plans in both towns.

Protests have already occurred, with residents holding signs along U.S. Highway 53 near Hermantown in June to demonstrate opposition to a proposed data center. The company's efforts to "woo residents" suggest a strategy to mitigate local resistance and secure community approval for its projects.