Hermantown delays decision on Google data center tax incentive

The Hermantown Council has tabled a vote on an $80 million tax incentive for a proposed 1.2 million sq. ft. Google data center, leaving the community in Hermantown, Minnesota, divided. During a recent council meeting, dozens of residents expressed both strong support and opposition regarding the potential tax abatement deal. Supporters, including third-generation business owner Chris Adette, highlighted the economic benefits, such as jobs, housing, business development, and a significant commercial tax base. Adette noted that the data center could bring in $42.7 million over 28 years, contrasting it with nearby Duluth's budget deficit. He also mentioned Google's offer to cover $130 million in infrastructure costs required for the project. Conversely, opponents, including Emma Richtman of the "Stop the Hermantown Data Center" group, raised concerns about pollution, a decline in property values, and excessive power consumption. Richtman argued that the tax abatements are unnecessary and that the community is not requesting an industrial project in a rural residential area of southwest Hermantown. Following public comments, the council postponed the vote on the tax abatement. Joe Wicklund, Communications Director for the City of Hermantown, stated that a new date for the council's decision is yet to be determined.