Community members seek answers at Hereford meeting on proposed Google data center
Google held an informational meeting in Hereford, Texas, regarding its proposed Roman Project data center in Deaf Smith County, aiming to address community questions about water usage and employment. County leaders have implemented safeguards and monitoring for water usage through agreements with the companies involved. The project is in early stages, with a tax abatement proposal pending and an air permit open for public comment.
An informational meeting was held in Hereford, Texas, for residents to learn more about Google's proposed "Roman Project" data center in Deaf Smith County. The meeting, hosted by Google with representatives from Intersect Power and Blattner, aimed to address community questions and highlight potential job opportunities, including 2,500 construction jobs and 90 permanent operational roles.
A primary concern among residents was water usage. Deaf Smith County Judge D.J. Wagner assured attendees that county leaders have collaborated with water experts and incorporated safeguards into agreements with the companies, utilizing the Santa Rosa Aquifer instead of the Ogallala Aquifer. The county also negotiated measures for ongoing water usage monitoring.
The project, which involves the purchase and lease of approximately 3,700 acres, is in its early stages with permitting and additional agreements ongoing. The Deaf Smith County Hospital District Board of Directors is scheduled to consider Google's tax abatement proposal for the project on July 23. Separately, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is accepting public comments until July 24 on a proposed air permit for the project's natural gas-powered generation facility. Construction is projected for completion by 2030 if plans proceed.