Stratos Data Center Forum
Residents in Box Elder County attended a public forum to question a MIDA board member about the proposed Stratos Data Center, raising concerns over transparency and the approval process. Clearfield Mayor Mark Shepard, a MIDA board member, defended his vote despite public outcry and an ongoing appeal regarding the project.
A public forum was held in Box Elder County, Utah, where residents questioned a board member of the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) regarding his vote on the proposed Stratos Data Center. News specialist Mike Anderson reported on the event, noting that many concerns revolved around transparency and the approval process for the data center, issues that have been persistent.
Mayor Mark Shepard of Clearfield, who also serves as a voting member of the MIDA board, addressed the forum. He expressed surprise at the public outcry and revealed he had received death threats, stating the reaction was "a lot more than I anticipated." Shepard explained that MIDA's approval process was public and assured residents they would still have opportunities to provide feedback during the permitting phase. He stood by his vote, highlighting the crucial military capabilities that could be gained with Stratos, though he could not elaborate on specifics, mentioning that modern defense technology is heavily data-driven.
Residents also voiced concerns about the shrinking Great Salt Lake, linking it to potential impacts from the data center. Shepard affirmed his support for the project, citing benefits for the economy, the state of Utah, and the military. He also indicated support for the public's role, including a potential referendum should the current appeal process continue.