Some sections of a future Applied Digital data center near Harwood, North Dakota, were enclosed on March 4, 2026, while other sections were ready for more concrete panels to form the walls. (Photo by Jeff Beach/North Dakota Monitor)
FARGO (KFGO) – North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong says the state needs to identify its role in the construction of data centers. Armstrong says the state should support small communities, and any policy in the next legislative session should needs balance.
“Anything we do has to be unique then to the state, there’s a very delicate balance here of not taking local control away, but also not creating a duplicative burden,” Armstrong said.
The governor also warned elected officials about signing non-disclosure agreements.
“That simple act, will create more ill-will than you can ever make back. That’s not my policy belief, that’s my political belief.” Armstrong said.
Armstrong says for a data center to be built, the community needs to be on board, utility rates should not increase and water use should be explained.
The governor made his comments on KFGO News & Views with Joel Heitkamp.
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