Oliver County Officials Face Harassment Over Data Center Approval

Oliver County officials are experiencing intense harassment and legal challenges from anti-data center activists following the approval of a data center project by Applied Digital. Former Oliver County Commissioner Dave Berger resigned in April amid what he described as slanderous accusations and threats, stemming from his involvement in public service and the data center issue.

Currently, Oliver County State's Attorney Patrick Waters is the subject of a removal petition filed with North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley's office. The petition, signed by approximately 180 individuals, alleges misconduct, neglect of duty, and other offenses. However, opinion columnist Rob Port suggests that Waters' true "sin" in the eyes of the activists is his failure to use his office to oppose the data center project, which would have been an abuse of authority.

Despite the opposition, Oliver County commissioners approved the building permit for the Applied Digital data center in June, following a collaborative process that incorporated compromises regarding water use, traffic, and noise. Port criticizes the activists' tactics as harassment rather than legitimate democratic action, noting that the petition is likely a form of retribution. While the Attorney General's office must investigate the petition, Port anticipates it will not lead to Waters' removal, suggesting the petitioners are unwilling to accept outcomes that do not align with their demands.

This situation highlights an ongoing debate in North Dakota about data center development and the methods used by opponents, raising questions about what constitutes acceptable political discourse. Waters has welcomed the review, stating he is ready to present his side and alleging defamation against a prominent data center opponent.