The agency that pushed Kevin O'Leary's data center project gets grilled by Utah lawmakers
Utah lawmakers questioned the Military Installation Development Authority about its role in advancing Kevin O'Leary's controversial Stratos data center project in Box Elder County. The project has drawn public protests and scrutiny over government transparency, the agency's mission, and its water rights application.
Utah lawmakers grilled Military Installation Development Authority Executive Director Dan Hemmert about the agency's involvement in the Stratos data center project associated with investor Kevin O'Leary. Hemmert denied pressuring Box Elder County commissioners, while acknowledging that the project has become a focus of public controversy and that MIDA's role may be examined at a future public meeting.
Lawmakers and Governor Spencer Cox have questioned whether MIDA has expanded beyond its military-related mission by supporting data centers and other projects. Rep. Jason Thompson said he has opened legislation to narrow MIDA's authority and potentially exclude data centers, while Hemmert predicted multiple bills seeking to reform the agency. The Utah State Auditor's Office has also requested MIDA documents for review.