'Get informed': Participants in data center discussion stress importance of involvement on issue

Amid intense debate surrounding data center development across Utah, a panel discussion convened at Weber State University in Ogden, organized by the Olene Walker Institute of Politics and Public Service and Americans for Prosperity in Utah. Panelists stressed the critical importance of public involvement and informed decision-making regarding new data center proposals, which are emerging in areas including Juab, Box Elder, and Utah counties.

William Olson, founder of Weber County Conservatives, urged the public to "get informed, find good sources, question things and participate" to foster open dialogue. Uriah Kennedy and Ingrid Bettridge of the God and Country podcast defended data centers, countering what they called misinformation and highlighting their role in national defense and AI development. They also advocated for public benefit through community redevelopment from data center revenues and for local communities to have the ultimate say in whether facilities are built in their areas.

Tyson Reese, engagement director with Americans for Prosperity in Utah, argued that data centers should not be subsidized by taxpayers, advocating for them to be self-sustaining. Former investigative journalist Debbie Dujanovic warned the public to monitor local government meeting agendas, as data center proposals may not be explicitly named. Kaile Akina from the Healthy Environment Alliance of Utah (HEAL Utah) raised questions about the regulatory oversight of rapidly built data centers and potential long-term costs.