Protests Delay Hermantown Council Meeting on Proposed Google Data Center
Protesters opposing Google’s proposed data center in Hermantown, Minnesota, forced a city council meeting to be postponed and rescheduled. Residents cite concerns about potential air and water quality impacts, while a court hearing will address allegations that the city violated permit notice requirements.
Protesters gathered outside a Hermantown City Council meeting for two hours, prompting officials to postpone a session that could have advanced Google’s proposed data center. The meeting was rescheduled for the same day as a court hearing concerning allegations that Hermantown failed to meet notice requirements for permits.
Google and Hermantown have been pursuing the project for more than a year, although Google has reduced the scope of its plans. Local residents continue to oppose the development, saying its effects on air and water quality remain unclear. City officials defended the review process and criticized the protesters, while an opposing group is pursuing legal action. Even if the council approves the permits, Google would still need authorization from other agencies before construction could begin.