Texas residents react to data center vote
El Paso's city council voted 5-3 to uphold a controversial tax incentive agreement with Meta for a new data center, despite significant public opposition. The deal grants Meta $550 million in tax incentives over 10 years, requiring 50 jobs and an $800 million investment. Mayor Reynard Johnson cited legal difficulties in ending a binding agreement, while promising to hold Meta accountable.
The El Paso City Council recently voted 5 to 3 to maintain a controversial incentive agreement with Meta for a large data center project, despite a "raucous crowd" and nearly 200 public comments, which a local affiliate reported were largely in favor of canceling the deal. The agreement, originally approved in 2023, provides Meta with tax incentives potentially worth up to $550 million over 10 years.
In return for the incentives, Meta is required to maintain 50 jobs and make an $800 million investment. The facility is expected to become one of the largest data center campuses in Texas. After the meeting, El Paso Mayor Reynard Johnson stated that legal experts advised the council that ending a binding agreement would be difficult, but he committed to holding Meta accountable.
Community members voiced concerns about the potential impact of a hyperscale data center on the city's resources and environment. Conversely, supporters of the agreement highlighted its potential for job creation. Mayor Johnson and other council members also argued that canceling the deal could put taxpayers at financial risk.