Central Texans and local lawmaker speak out on data center ahead of house hearing
The Texas House Committee on State Affairs is holding a hearing on the rapid expansion of data centers in Central Texas. Local residents and a lawmaker, Representative Hillary Hicklin, are raising concerns about air and noise pollution, energy grid strain, and water usage. The public is encouraged to submit comments on these issues.
The Texas House of Representatives Committee on State Affairs is set to hear testimony regarding the rapid expansion of data centers across Central Texas. Residents and organizations, including Solange Hammel, Vice President for the Bell County, Texas Democratic Women, are urging public participation and expressing significant concerns.
Concerns primarily revolve around environmental impacts such as air and noise pollution, and the intensive use of natural resources, including the energy grid and water supply. Local lawmaker Representative Hillary Hicklin also voiced questions, acknowledging Texas's attractive resources and economy for these companies, but emphasizing the need for data center developers to be responsible and considerate of the state's residents and resources.
The committee will hear invited testimony from experts on the topic. The public is still able to submit comments ahead of the hearing, particularly those affected by or with ideas regarding the data center industry's impact on their families and communities.