Residents threaten city council recall after local leaders approve Rowan data center development agreement

After an eight-hour meeting, the Temple, Texas city council voted to approve a development agreement for a new Rowan data center, alongside the annexation of land for the project. The decision was met with heavy opposition from residents who packed the council chambers, expressing concerns about the facility's demands on local water and utility resources, as well as potential environmental contamination. Residents, including Joe Royers, Summer Brady, and Lynn Thomas, stated they felt unheard and threatened a recall of council members if the agreement with Rowan was approved, emphasizing a desire for more transparency from local leaders. Rowan representatives were present and answered questions directly from neighbors during the meeting. Despite the community's push to slow the project, the council proceeded with the approval. Resident Lucas Madrid highlighted concerns about rising cost of living and pollution to the natural environment. While Councilman Davis indicated his intention was to ensure all concerns were heard and addressed, neighbors told KXXV they desire more detailed information. The threat of recall represents an immediate path forward for the frustrated residents, though they plan to explore all available options for accountability.