Residents press city council on data center transparency, water use and housing concerns

San Angelo residents gathered at a special City Council meeting on April 22 to express a range of views on a proposed data center project, with many highlighting potential negative impacts on the city's resources and daily life. Key concerns voiced during public comment included the strain on local water supplies, the inadequacy of current housing to accommodate an influx of workers, and increased truck traffic, particularly near schools. Several speakers accused the city of prioritizing profit over the needs of its citizens and called for greater transparency from city leaders regarding corporate interests. However, some residents also spoke in favor of the project, anticipating an economic boost through job creation and increased business for local hotels and restaurants. Mayor Tom Thompson addressed the residents' concerns, stating that "No project is being prioritized over the people of San Angelo." He emphasized the city's commitment to balancing economic development with quality of life through factual analysis, careful planning, and enforceable agreements, adding that any proposed development would need to comply with all city ordinances, as well as state and federal regulations.