Residents raise questions about proposed Shackelford County Data Center
Residents in Shackelford County, Texas, packed a commissioners court meeting to voice concerns about a proposed 10,000-acre data center project presented by Merritt Advisors. Key issues raised included stormwater runoff, road damage, and water usage. Shackelford County Judge John Battelle encouraged the company to hold a public town hall to address community questions directly before the project moves forward.
SHACKELFORD COUNTY, Texas – Residents gathered at the Shackelford County Commissioners Court on Monday to discuss a proposed data center project, identified as the Bolt and Data Energy Center, with representatives from Merritt Advisors. The project, planned for 10,000 acres under a 20-year lease, has sparked significant community questions and concerns, particularly as the county already hosts one data center. Residents expressed hesitation about a second facility, citing a lack of perceived benefits for the community.
Key concerns raised by residents included potential stormwater runoff, the cost of road repairs due to construction practices, and the sourcing and discharge of water for the data center. Merritt Advisors representatives addressed these points, stating that the project would use high-quality treated water, three to four times purer than ocean water, which has been successfully used for crop growth in trials. They emphasized that the goal is to avoid municipal water use during construction.
The company also explained that Shackelford County was chosen due to its abundant access to natural gas and existing power infrastructure, which are crucial for generating electricity for the data center's operations. Shackelford County Judge John Battelle encouraged Merritt Advisors to host a public town hall to allow residents to ask direct questions before the project advances. Judge Battelle, while declining an on-camera interview, noted that despite inconveniences, such large investments could help solve long-standing problems in Shackelford County, viewing the 20-year lease as a sign of commitment.