Critics Question Possible Family Business Ties to Massive Utah Data Center Project

Questions and criticism continue to grow surrounding Utah’s approved “hyperscale” data center project in Box Elder County, with some critics now pointing to possible indirect ties involving Gov. Spencer Cox’s family business.

The massive Stratos data center project, backed by investor Kevin O’Leary, has been promoted by state leaders as a major economic and infrastructure investment that could support national security and technological growth. The project is expected to eventually generate up to 9 gigawatts of power and require significant utility and fiber infrastructure across northern Utah.

Some opponents of the project have raised concerns online and during public meetings about CentraCom, a telecommunications company historically owned and operated by the Cox family. Gov. Cox previously worked for the company before entering state politics, while his father remains involved in the business.

Critics argue that large-scale infrastructure projects tied to the data center could potentially increase demand for fiber expansion and internet connectivity in rural Utah, areas where CentraCom already operates. However, no direct business partnership between CentraCom and the Stratos project has been publicly announced.

Supporters of the development say the project could bring jobs, investment, and long-term economic growth to the region. Others remain concerned about environmental impacts, water usage, power demands, and the influence large corporations may have on state development decisions.

Gov. Cox has defended the broader push for data center infrastructure in Utah, describing it as important for economic growth and national competitiveness. Debate surrounding the project is expected to continue as development plans move forward.