Commissioners address data center, residents speak out
The Box Elder County Commission recently addressed public concerns regarding the controversial Stratos Project data center, which they had previously approved. Residents from Box Elder and surrounding counties voiced strong opposition and support during the meeting, primarily citing environmental, water, and transparency issues. Commissioners defended their handling of the proposal, despite the ongoing public scrutiny.
At a recent Box Elder County Commission meeting held at the Brigham City Justice Court, commissioners addressed the contentious "Stratos Project" data center, which had been approved on May 4. The change in venue was prompted by safety concerns following the prior approval. Commissioner Boyd Bingham acknowledged the tension, explaining that the previous meeting was moved due to an inability to conduct business amidst public outcry. Commissioner Lee Perry stated that the Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) had presented the project, leading commissioners to consult legal counsel to protect county interests regarding water use, air quality, and infrastructure.
Commission Chair Tyler Vincent refuted accusations of improper influence from developers, asserting that delays were made to study the proposal and establish "guardrails" for the county. During the public comment session, residents raised numerous concerns. DeAnna Hardy of the Box Elder Committee for Liberty criticized the lack of public comment at an earlier meeting and highlighted issues of surveillance, resource consumption, and tax incentives. Tenille Taggart emphasized Utah's severe drought, questioning the logic of a water-intensive project.
Comedian Walter Masterson criticized the project's size and projected emissions, claiming it would burn methane from the Ruby gas pipeline and release significant nitric oxide. Utah State Senate candidate Julie Quinlan questioned the economic benefits, drawing parallels to the dot-com bust. Other residents, including Tiffany Larson and Julia Hubbard, urged opposition to external political pressure and warned of surveillance and environmental degradation. Warren McGregor criticized the commission for approving the project despite widespread public opposition, urging them to prioritize community voice.