Data Center Press Conference

In El Paso, Texas, the Sembrando Esperanza Coalition held a press conference to voice strong opposition against a proposed Meta data center slated for construction on Fort Bliss property. Saul Gonzalez, an organizer with the coalition, highlighted concerns found in contracts with the city, county, and El Paso Water, alleging that the project would create fewer jobs than promised, lack obligations for local hiring, and offer insufficient protections for residents. The coalition urged local and county representatives to impose stricter limitations on data centers in the region, expressing a desire to prevent their establishment. Rafael Krasco, President of Empowering Area Communities and Households in Montana Vista, spoke as a resident already burdened by a nearby power plant and fuel tanks. He criticized Fort Bliss leadership for allowing another industrial polluter near civilian homes, contrasting the military base's benefit with the health, water, and electricity cost burdens placed on residents. Krasco also drew attention to property tax inequities, noting that while his personal taxes increased and were back-charged, data centers receive significant tax abatements for up to 15 years, calling it an injustice. El Paso County Commissioner Jackie Butler, representing Precinct One and a lifelong resident of Montana Vista, expressed deep concern over the data center's proximity to residential areas in East El Paso County, especially given existing industrial infrastructure. She acknowledged the county's lack of jurisdiction over federal property but implored Fort Bliss and Department of the Army leadership to engage with community concerns and reconsider the project's location, particularly its impact on underserved communities. Speakers also raised questions about a potentially related "Pine Mloud" facility by El Paso Electric, citing a lack of transparency from officials over the past four years regarding the development.