Kevin O’Leary says Utah’s AI data center debate misses the jobs angle, while residents raise concerns about water and community impacts.
A high-profile investor has pushed back on local resistance to an AI data center in Utah, arguing that critics are overlooking the potential economic upside.
Kevin O’Leary. known for his venture capital work and for appearing on “Shark Tank. ” defended his backing of the Stratos Project in Box Elder County. using the jobs it could create as his central argument.. In posts shared on Misryoum. O’Leary said many Americans react negatively to new data center developments. but that part of the pushback stems from misunderstanding what these facilities do and how their footprint is changing.
This matters because data centers have become a flashpoint in many communities where residents want the benefits of new technology, but also want assurances on resources like water, power, and quality of life.
O’Leary framed the debate as a response to legitimate questions, particularly around environmental impact.. He said he can understand concerns about water. air. and wildlife. and connected those concerns to his own background in environmental studies.. At the same time. he argued that the public conversation often lags behind advancements in how data centers are designed and operated. including approaches intended to reduce water use and manage cooling.
The project has faced sustained opposition from some residents, including worries that it could strain local water supplies.. Data centers can be heavy users of water. and that has fueled concerns ranging from potential utility costs to noise and broader impacts on daily life.. Misryoum also notes that the Stratos Project name has appeared alongside disputes tied to water rights and local infrastructure planning.
Even when a project is approved, the way it is explained locally can determine whether it earns durable social support. In this case, the sticking point is not just technology, but trust.
County commissioners in Box Elder County approved the project. according to Misryoum. and backing is also listed through Utah’s Military Installation Development Authority.. In the midst of the approval process. some local residents raised concerns about water management near the Great Salt Lake region. including issues connected to nearby water sources.
O’Leary responded to the criticism by suggesting that opposition was driven by paid organizers rather than community concerns. while he also said the project should be handled with transparency.. He added that he wants Stratos to serve as an example of how stakeholders can engage publicly. particularly on sustainability. environmental stewardship. and impacts on local constituencies.
The commercial logic of AI infrastructure may be clear to investors, but community approval often depends on more than economics. Clear disclosure, measurable commitments, and ongoing responsiveness can be what turns a controversial build into a workable partnership.
Misryoum also reports that some residents remain skeptical. even as project summaries describe safeguards around water diversions. electricity prices. and taxes.. Meanwhile. conversations with local voices have continued to emphasize a key principle: if benefits are not legible to the public. resistance is likely to persist.