Data Center Debate Leaves Hermantown Deeply Divided

Supporters and opponents of the proposed Hermantown data center are speaking out after a special city council meeting ended early when police declared the gathering an “unlawful assembly.” The meeting was set to address agenda items that could have advanced the controversial project, but tensions escalated after public comment sign-ups closed while many residents were still waiting to speak. Protesters and supporters offer sharply different accounts of what unfolded, with some describing the meeting as disruptive and unsafe, while others say attendees were exercising their right to peaceful protest and free speech. Members of the Duluth Building and Construction Trades Council, the Hermantown Chamber of Commerce, and the Stop the Hermantown Data Center group share their perspectives on the events that led to the meeting's shutdown, concerns over public access, and what comes next for the data center debate.