Google reps hold first open house with Hermantown residents on proposed data center
Google held its first open house in Hermantown, Minnesota, to discuss a proposed 1.8 million-square-foot data center with local residents. Representatives addressed concerns about environmental and economic impacts, including water management, as both supporters and opponents attended. Google plans more community events to gather further public input on the project.
Google representatives, including Tyler Huebner, engaged directly with Hermantown, Minnesota, residents for the first time at an open house concerning a proposed 1.8 million-square-foot data center. The event, which also included representatives from Mortenson Construction and Minnesota Power, drew a large crowd of community members eager to learn more about the project, slated for development near Midway Road and Morris Thomas Road.
Key concerns raised by residents centered on environmental and economic impacts, with specific questions about water management, site selection, and the environmental review process. Some residents, like Jack LiaBraaten, voiced strong opposition, citing worries about water resources, the loss of farming land, and impacts on local wells. Others, such as Duluth resident Brian Hanson, expressed hope for robust community dialogue and transparency about the project's next steps.
Despite varying opinions, both opponents and supporters attended the meeting seeking information, though some indicated their minds were unlikely to change. Google confirmed plans for additional community events, with the next one anticipated in August, to continue gathering public input on the complex project. The open house provided a direct communication channel between residents and project leaders, addressing the "controversial" nature of the development.