District 20 State Representative Kaley Nolz and Senator Paul Misikimins fielded questions during Tuesday’s District 20 legislative preview.
The subject of data centers led the discussion.
Miskimins believes they offer an excellent opportunity to grow the economy and reduce property taxes. “I’ve toured Ellendale, North Dakota,” said Miskimins. “They had a 20% reduction in their property tax level because of the data center that’s coming into Ellendale. They also had a reduction in their energy rates, so it didn’t drive the cost of energy up, it brought it down in Ellendale.”
Nolz voiced concerns. “I’m not against them, but I’m definitely not in support of a sales tax exemption, especially when we have people across the state asking for property tax relief,” said Nolz. “So I think build them, great, but do it along the same lines of every business owner in this state.”
The 2026 legislative session starts January 13th.