Proposed data center in Elk River faces opposition from residents
A proposed 33-megawatt data center in Elk River, Minnesota, is facing significant opposition from residents concerned about noise, water usage, and electricity demand. Residents packed City Hall to urge city leaders to reject the project, with a final decision expected from the Elk River City Council in early July. Simultaneously, a two-year statewide moratorium on data centers is being advocated for due to concerns over rapid development and insufficient information.
A proposed 33-megawatt data center in Elk River, Minnesota, is encountering significant opposition from local residents. At a recent City Hall meeting, residents expressed concerns about the project's environmental impact, specifically citing potential issues with noise, water usage, and electricity demand, despite developer assurances. The facility, which would convert an existing building on Industrial Boulevard and operate 24/7, is projected to generate up to $800,000 annually for the city and create 40 jobs.
Utility leaders have stated they possess the necessary capacity for the data center, with the developer responsible for connection costs. However, residents urged city officials to reject the proposal. A noise study is underway, with results expected to be shared at the June 23 Planning Commission meeting.
Kathryn Hoffman, executive director of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, highlighted the statewide push for a two-year moratorium on data centers, citing a lack of information on risks and the rapid pace of development. The Elk River City Council is anticipated to render a final decision on the project in early July.