Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Data Center Appeal topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
County tables Critical Data House appeal after applicants seek time to revise site plans
Summary
Commissioners voted unanimously to table an appeal by Critical Data House after the applicant asked for time to re‑subdivide potential sites and hold township and neighbor meetings; public commenters urged industrial consolidation and protection of farmland.
The Williams County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to table indefinitely an appeal by Critical Data House after company representatives asked for additional time to revise site plans and consult with township officials and nearby landowners.
Attorney Dale Haugen and company representatives told the board the applicant is evaluating alternative land options that could meet county setback requirements without an appeal. The applicant asked the board to “permanently table” the case so the company can complete township meetings, neighbor outreach and updated noise and logistics studies before returning with a consolidated application.
Chris Harden, identified in the hearing as a company representative, said Critical Data House is pursuing cloud services sites in North Dakota and that the firm is studying several land variables so the county would receive a vetted project plan. He said the company and invited delegates had toured facilities in other states to understand construction and noise characteristics. Dale Haugen asked the board to postpone the hearing so the group can meet with township officials and directly with neighbors before formal CUP submissions.
Several residents urged consolidation of data centers into industrial zones rather than placing facilities on farmland. Kathy Cartier said the proposed area is “farmland” and wildlife habitat and urged the county not to scatter facilities across agricultural land. Charles Cartier referenced earlier denials for certain structures on ag land and said the county should treat ag land differently.
A representative for a private landowner (Crowley Fleck law firm) also spoke in support of tabling the matter.
After discussion the board voted to table the appeal indefinitely. The roll call was Bo — Yes; Chris — Yes; Barry — Yes; Corey — Yes, and the motion carried.
The applicant said it will hold township meetings and neighbor outreach and return with revised plans if necessary.
