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Applied Digital CEO Wes Cummins employs non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with town officials to prevent leaks about datacenter projects, citing concerns over insider trading regulations. This practice is common among tech firms, raising controversy as it limits public discussions about projects that may impact local communities.

Cummins is managing 11 datacenter projects across the US, including a $3 billion facility in Harwood, North Dakota, which received community support despite concerns over noise and resource use. Local officials, including Mayor Blake Hankey, have faced backlash for signing NDAs, which restricted their communication with constituents.

Critics argue that NDAs benefit wealthy corporations while depriving communities of necessary information. Applied Digital has begun construction on a new 430 MW datacenter in an undisclosed southern state, with more details expected to be shared in February.