Hermantown to restart environmental review on proposed data center site

The debate over a proposed data center project in Hermantown, Minnesota continues, with the city announcing plans to restart an environmental review process. In early March, it was revealed that Google is the company behind the data center proposal. On the same day, Minnesota Power shared details on an agreement to power the facility if it is built. Supporters of the project have touted the potential for increased tax revenue and job creation, but critics have raised concerns about potential environmental impacts and the location in a residential community. During a recent Hermantown City Council meeting, officials detailed plans for a new Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR), a type of environmental study on the site. This will supersede an earlier draft AUAR adopted in 2025, as more details about the project are now known. The new review process is expected to take about 7 months and include opportunities for public comment. While some residents remain opposed to the data center, city and company officials argue the project would bring economic benefits to the region. The environmental review will aim to address the community's concerns as the proposal moves forward.