Angelina County residents speak out against proposed AI data center

Angelina County community members expressed strong opposition to a proposed artificial intelligence data center at a recent Commissioners Court meeting. The data center is slated for the old paper mill site at 103 West in Angelina County, a location now officially confirmed by commissioners. Residents voiced concerns about the environmental impact, particularly regarding water usage, noise pollution, and the potential for tax abatements benefiting large corporations at the expense of local taxpayers.

County Commissioner Judge Keith Wright stated that while the county has limited authority to permit or restrict such developments under Texas state law, they are proposing a tax abatement agreement with the data center operators. This agreement would include stipulations requiring the owner to maintain a public website with project updates, report annually on energy usage, thermal impact, and noise control, and contribute $250,000 annually to the volunteer fire department and $500,000 for county roads and bridge updates.

A resident testified passionately, emphasizing the importance of water for life and the potential negative impacts on daily lives, property values, and the natural environment for those living near the data center. Judge Wright acknowledged the community's concerns and stated that the commissioners aim to represent Angelina County's interests and mitigate potential harm. The proposed tax abatement is still under negotiation, and the county intends to hold additional public hearings to allow for continued community input.