RAPID CITY, S.D. – Few things strike a nerve in public opinion like the phrase, ‘data centers.’ But what exactly are they? What is their place in a community, in an economy?

In efforts to address those questions and more, Dakota Rural Action (DRA) will host a Data Center Panel Discussion at 6:30 p.m. at the Minneluzahan Senior Center in Rapid City on Wednesday, May 13.

Rick Bell is a director of South Dakota Rural Action and also a member of Community Energy Development. He says it’s about communication and education.

Recent developments surrounding data centers and the resources required to power them have resulted in state legislation and regulations. Those decision processes will continue. Bell says that citizen input is important.

He went on to say there is more than one view to consider.

The public is invited to join with local leaders, community members, and industry perspectives at the Data Center Panel discussion, that includes panelists representing varying views.

The Data Center Panel discussion will be moderated by DRA member Kelly Moore, and there will be time for questions from the audience.

Panelists include:
Garth Wadsworth, Elevate Rapid City
Krystal Two Bulls, Honor the Earth
Wes Ashton, Black Hills Energy
Rick Bell, Dakota Rural Action
Nicole Uhre-Balk, District 32 Legislator
Larry Ingwersen & Victoria Blatchford, Sequitor Edge

The public is invited to join the discussion with local leaders, community members, and industry perspectives for a clear, fact-based conversation around data center development, potential impacts and benefits, and how these projects are evaluated.

For more information on recent developments regarding data center development by public utilities and private companies in South Dakota and surrounding states, go on line to KBHB Radio.com