Mandan holds data center discussion
Concerned citizens in Mandan, North Dakota, gathered to discuss the potential construction of a new data center near their city. The Morton County planning and zoning committee is currently drafting an ordinance specifically for AI data centers, which will be presented later this week. Public input is being emphasized by county officials to ensure the new regulations are effective.
Residents of Mandan, North Dakota, gathered this week at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Library to voice their concerns over the potential construction of a new data center near their community. The meeting was organized by Signe Snortland, who is currently campaigning for the North Dakota State Senate in District 33 as a Dem-NPL party candidate.
Holly Burch, a member of the Morton County Planning and Zoning Committee, announced that the county is in the process of drafting a new ordinance specifically addressing AI data centers. This proposed ordinance is expected to be read later this week. Burch emphasized the importance of public engagement, noting past instances where a lack of community involvement led to dissatisfaction with outcomes. She stressed that while the ordinance is being developed with residents in mind, the Planning and Zoning Committee and the County Commission require public input to refine the regulations properly. The Morton County ordinance is slated for presentation on the following day.