Candidate's View: Hermantown data-center proposal a Duluth problem, too
A Minnesota gubernatorial candidate argues that a proposed Google data center in Hermantown, despite its location, poses significant environmental, electricity, and water challenges for neighboring Duluth. The candidate criticizes the regional impact, highlighting concerns about stormwater runoff into the St. Louis River watershed and demands on Duluth's utilities. He calls for greater public scrutiny and regional accountability for such large-scale industrial projects.
Scott Jensen, a Republican candidate for Minnesota State Auditor, has weighed in on the proposed Google data center in Hermantown, arguing that its regional impact extends to Duluth despite a rival candidate's claim that the issue is solely a Hermantown matter.
Jensen highlighted environmental concerns, noting the potential for stormwater runoff into the St. Louis River watershed, which flows through Duluth into Lake Superior. He cited a recent report by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources that flagged critical environmental gaps in the project's review. Additionally, Jensen raised questions about the data center's anticipated demands on Duluth's water supply and electrical grid, and the potential for altering the ecological balance of the St. Louis River.
The candidate criticized the lack of transparency, suggesting that non-disclosure agreements might be allowing Google to negotiate privately and avoid full public scrutiny. He also questioned whether the tax revenues Hermantown expects to receive would offset the potential liabilities for Duluth. Jensen's column emphasized the need for leaders to acknowledge the broad, interconnected issues data centers pose, urging for regional accountability beyond municipal borders, and warning that the project's fallout could affect Duluth for decades.