Temple Mayor Davis defends data centers despite detractors

Temple Mayor Tim Davis has publicly defended proposed data center developments in a letter to residents, framing them as crucial for long-term planning and responsible growth in the city. The mayor addressed community concerns about water demand, electric grid stability, environmental oversight, and local control, asserting that modern data centers utilize closed-loop cooling systems that significantly reduce water consumption. He also highlighted the substantial annual tax revenue, estimated at $7 million during a 10-year abatement period and $12 million afterward for each Rowan data center, which he believes will support public services without raising property taxes. Despite Mayor Davis's reassurances, critics leading a recall effort against him, Mayor pro tem Jessica Walker, and Council member Mike Pilkington, claim the letter has invigorated opposition. Joe Royer, a leader of the recall campaign, accused the city of lacking transparency and downplaying risks, asserting that officials portray the projects as inevitable, thereby sidestepping their responsibilities. Royer noted a significant surge in public support for the recall since the letter's release, with the campaign having already collected over 2,000 signatures towards a goal of 5,000 to trigger an election. Opponents also cited examples of other Texas communities, such as San Marcos and Hutto, that have halted similar data center proposals, and referenced a recent decision by Killeen's Planning and Zoning committee to vote against a data center. The recall campaign maintains an active presence on social media and continues to gather support, suggesting that the community is not convinced by the city's arguments and seeks greater accountability from its leadership.