A study conducted by research agency Berenschot has revealed that there were no instances of misconduct in the establishment of large Microsoft and Google data centers in the municipality of Hollands Kroon. However, the report is critical because it suggests that insufficient consideration was given to the concerns of the residents.
According to the researchers, the focus of the board was primarily on highlighting the positive impacts of the data centers, such as job creation. The negative consequences, such as high electricity and cooling water usage, were reportedly overlooked by the municipality. Additionally, the researchers claim that the municipality did not have the authority to grant approval for the construction of the data centers. The report also criticizes the municipality for underestimating the level of organizational effort required for such a large-scale development.
The findings of the Berenschot report have been embraced by the new municipal council, as noted in a statement. The council acknowledges that while there were no proven abuses, there was a lack of dialogue between the board, council, and the community. The council has committed to further investigating the matter in collaboration with the municipal council, with plans to provide a comprehensive response by April 18.
In addition, there has been controversy within the municipality concerning the alleged manipulation of a map of Hollands Kroon by a "small group of officials and civil servants" to facilitate the construction of data centers by tech companies. The previous municipal council reportedly approved the modified map, which allowed for the expansion of areas where Google and Microsoft could build their facilities.
The altered map was integrated into the environmental vision of Hollands Kroon, a tool used by provinces and municipalities to outline their long-term goals for land use and development. The researchers claim that the previous council approved the updated map, although it remains unclear how it was introduced into the environmental vision. They suggest that earlier versions of the vision contained a different map altogether.
English (US)