Bonner community meeting highlights questions, concerns about proposed AI data center

Krambu CEO Steve Wood met with Bonner community members to discuss plans for transforming the former United Forest Products building into an artificial intelligence data center. Wood emphasized a sustainable approach, proposing a closed-loop water system to reduce resource usage, a technology he claims is innovative and currently being implemented in Washington. The company aims to bring jobs to Bonner and ensure the data center has a minimal environmental footprint. However, residents expressed significant skepticism and concerns during the meeting. Questions were raised about the source and total usage of water, which Wood indicated would come from the former sawmill's supply, with an estimated usage of 500 gallons per megawatt. Wastewater treatment and its compliance with regulations were also discussed. Community members also inquired about the potential impact on energy bills, though Wood stated that buying power from the grid would not increase customer rates. Concerns about infrasonic waves (vibrations below 20hz) and their potential health impacts were also voiced. The project is currently dependent on selecting a client, which could include entities like Palantir or the Department of Defense, and must comply with Missoula County's zoning, waste, noise, and environmental regulations. County Planner Jennie Dixon noted that the county adjusted regulations after issues with a previous cryptocurrency mine in the area. Missoula County has established an informational page and a platform for public comment on the proposal.