Local and Regional News, Monday 5/11/2026

A proposed data center project in Hermantown is drawing continued debate as communities across the country weigh the benefits and concerns tied to the fast-growing industry.
Critics have raised questions about environmental impacts, tax incentives, and water use connected to massive facilities designed to process artificial intelligence and other digital data.
Meanwhile, Minnesota-based Geronimo Power is promoting what it calls a community-first approach for a proposed project in Nobles County. Company leaders say the facility would use a closed-loop cooling system to reduce water consumption and would be powered through wind, solar, and energy storage.
Executive Vice President Drew Terwilliger says the company is focused on transparency and working directly with local residents. Geronimo has also proposed direct payments totaling 10 million dollars to residents living near the project site.
Despite those promises, the Nobles County Board recently rejected a zoning change tied to the development. Company officials say they are now evaluating next steps as demand for AI-driven data infrastructure continues to grow.

Minnesota health officials say wildfire smoke continues to pose growing health risks across the state. The Minnesota Department of Health says fine particle pollution can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing risks for asthma attacks, breathing problems, heart disease, and other long-term complications.

Health experts say children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people with respiratory conditions remain especially vulnerable during smoky conditions.

Students at International Falls High School are celebrating Spring Sports Week this week with a full lineup of themed dress-up days and school spirit activities running through Friday.
Monday’s theme is Country versus Country Club Day, followed Tuesday by Backwards Class Day, where students dress like teachers and teachers dress like students. Wednesday features College Rep Day along with a pepfest, while Thursday is Twin Day. The week wraps up Friday with Bronco Day as students show their support for Bronco athletics.
School officials say the week is designed to build excitement and celebrate student-athletes competing in spring sports as the postseason approaches.