New tensions flare over massive data center ‘Project Jupiter’ in southern New Mexico
Residents in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, are upset over a perceived "bait and switch" regarding a public meeting for the massive "Project Jupiter" data center. They desired an open town hall to discuss environmental concerns but received a career fair and open house, leading to heated exchanges with the Doña Ana County Commission.
New tensions have erupted in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, over the proposed 'Project Jupiter' data center. Residents expressed their outrage during a recent Doña Ana County Commission meeting, where hours of 'fiery exchanges' culminated in a 'blow-up' regarding public participation.
Opposition groups, displaying signs like 'We can't drink data' and 'Let Senator Teresa breathe,' voiced significant concerns about the project's immense size and potential environmental impacts. Their primary frustration stems from a change in the format of an upcoming public engagement event. Opponents expected a genuine town hall to address their questions, but the event was re-slated as a career fair and open house.
While some project supporters argued the open house would foster 'real and genuine conversations,' opponents countered that it was an inadequate substitute for a serious public forum, labeling the change as turning a 'meaningful discussion to una fiesta, una feria, a fair.' County leaders, who clarified they are not hosting the event, acknowledged their own divisions on the open house's effectiveness in providing the public with 'actual details.'