Hometown Source reports…

Elk River candidates discuss data centers, housing and city spending at forum

Westgaard outlines priorities as mayoral successor to Dietz; council candidates weigh growth, infrastructure and taxpayer costs

Elk River’s next mayor and City Council will face decisions about data center development, housing affordability, downtown construction and the cost of expanding city services, candidates said during a forum hosted by the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce.

Discussion on data centers…

Data centers prompt calls for clearer rules

Data center development was among the forum’s most consequential topics, with candidates generally acknowledging the potential economic benefits while emphasizing the importance of location and planning.

Johnson, who said he has spent much of his career in the information technology industry and has worked in data centers across Minnesota, said the facilities are increasingly necessary to support businesses’ technology needs.