AI Policy & Regulation
4d ago
North Dakota Town of Harwood Votes Against Restrictions on Data Centers Amid Election Trends
Nov 7, 2026
AI Summary
In a recent midterm election, Harwood, North Dakota, voted against a measure that would limit data center developments, contrasting with broader national trends. Approximately 75% of voters opposed the initiative, which aimed to impose stricter evaluation and approval processes for industrial projects.
- Harwood, a small town in North Dakota, held a ballot measure regarding restrictions on data centers during the midterm elections.
- The measure aimed to amend the town's Home Rule Charter to require independent reviews and public hearings for large-scale developments.
- About 75% of the 430 votes cast opposed the measure, marking it as the only pro-data center initiative among 45 similar measures nationwide.
- The data center in question is a 160-acre project overseen by Applied Digital Corp., with plans for potential expansion to 900 acres.
- Local residents, including Michael Swartz, expressed concerns about the implications of data centers, particularly regarding noise pollution and community impact.
- The measure faced opposition from local officials and business groups, who argued it would create administrative burdens and risk losing tax benefits associated with the data center.
- The town's decision reflects a broader trend of economic considerations influencing public opinion on data centers, despite growing concerns about their environmental and social impacts.
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