
Jepson talks funding pressures, wakeboats and data centers at candidate forum
Becker County Commissioner Erica Jepson discussed the possibility of data centers coming to Becker County at a candidate forum. She noted that the county has already moved to require a conditional use permit for data center construction due to concerns about natural resource impact. Jepson emphasized the need for careful consideration of what data centers would bring to the county.
Becker County Commissioner Erica Jepson addressed various local issues, including the potential for data center development, during a League of Women Voters candidate forum held at M State in Detroit Lakes. Jepson, who is running for re-election to the District 1 seat on the Becker County Board, highlighted her four years of experience and her advocacy for the county against unfunded state and federal mandates, particularly in human services.
Responding to questions about data centers, Jepson stated that Becker County has already implemented a requirement for a conditional use permit for any proposed data center construction. She expressed concerns about the environmental impact, noting that "Data centers take a toll on natural resources" and stressed the importance of a thorough evaluation of what such facilities would contribute to the county before approval. Her challenger, Daniel Bergstrom, was not present at the forum.