Harmony city leaders face flood of feedback over proposed data center
Harmony city leaders faced extensive public feedback regarding a proposed data center, with residents expressing concerns about water usage, noise, and potential future expansion. The city is drafting amendments to impose restrictions, including expansion blocks and sound barriers, and will review a revised draft on September 16.
Harmony, Minnesota, city leaders convened a packed meeting to address significant public feedback regarding a proposed data center planned for the Fillmore County community. Over 40 written submissions, totaling more than 80 pages of concerns and questions, were reviewed following a two-week comment period.
Residents voiced multiple concerns, including the facility's projected water usage of up to 60,000 gallons per month, potential noise pollution, and the risk of unchecked future expansions. Locals also emphasized the need for complete transparency, pushing for the elimination of non-disclosure agreements to ensure all project details remain public.
In response to these concerns, the city's current draft proposals include measures to block future site expansions without explicit city approval and require developers to construct sound barriers or berms to mitigate noise. The city also plans to retain the authority to revoke a developer's Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and cease operations if any violations occur, with developers responsible for all application testing costs.
Mayor Steve Donney clarified that the drafts are not a final decision but rather a framework to assess developer proposals against city requirements. Residents, including Duane Teschler, expressed a desire for more explicit guarantees regarding project monitoring and oversight. City leaders have directed the city attorney to refine the proposed restrictions, with a revised draft expected for council review on September 16.