Hermantown residents hold forum to oppose proposed Google data center

An anti-data center movement in Hermantown, Minnesota, brought its message to nearby Duluth, organizing a forum at the DECC. The event, hosted by the "Stop the Hermantown Data Center Group," featured a panel of individuals opposing hyperscale data center construction, including Midwestern comedians Charlie Berens and Mary Mack. The forum was explicitly anti-data center, with all speakers expressing strong opposition.

Residents from across the Northland, primarily those already opposed, gathered to discuss a proposed Google AI data center in Hermantown. Comedian Charlie Berens, who has become a prominent voice in the anti-data center movement, offered both comedy and advocacy, questioning the necessity of AI data centers and demanding transparency from the companies behind them. Berens emphasized the public's right to information and accountability from developers.

Hermantown resident Sarah Lofal, a member of the Stop the Hermantown Data Center Group, echoed the sentiment of insufficient transparency surrounding the proposed project. She stated that the group is attempting to bridge the information gap between the community, the City Council, and the developer, who she believes has left many residents uninformed. Madison Kitch from nearby Proctor attended the forum to learn more, seeking information on the project's implications for her community.

Northern News Now's Leslie Krebs reported that requests for comment from the group Jobs for Minnesota and Hermantown city leaders were declined. While Hermantown leaders have previously expressed support for the data center, citing potential benefits like job creation, increased tax revenue, and funding for the school district, the community opposition remains active and vocal.