Judge denies Hermantown data center protestors' request for temporary restraining order
A judge denied opponents' request for a temporary restraining order that would have blocked permits and construction for a Google-backed AI data center in Hermantown. Residents continue to oppose the nearly 2 million-square-foot project, citing transparency concerns, environmental review issues and alleged violations of open meeting laws, while three other lawsuits remain pending.
A Minnesota judge denied a motion for a temporary restraining order seeking to halt permits and construction for a Google-backed AI data center in Hermantown. The proposed project would include three buildings on 200 acres and span nearly 2 million square feet. A hearing on the ruling is scheduled for the following week.
Opposition intensified after residents held a sit-in that forced the cancellation of an earlier Hermantown City Council meeting. The council rescheduled the meeting with restrictions including an 85% capacity limit, closure of an overflow room and an online participation option. Residents argue the restrictions and the city's nondisclosure agreements with Google undermine public transparency and may violate open meeting requirements. Three lawsuits alleging that construction has already begun remain pending, while Google has reportedly reduced the project's size and surrendered some tax breaks. The city estimates the data center could generate about $210 million in tax revenue over 20 years and create local jobs.