Temple residents launch recall petition over data center

Residents in Temple, Texas, have initiated a recall petition targeting Mayor Tim Davis and two city council members, Jennifer Walker and Mike Pilington, following their approval of a data center project known as "Project Ranger." Protesters gathered in downtown Temple, holding signs and seeking 5,000 signatures to remove the elected officials, arguing that the council did not represent their constituents' interests regarding the development. Local resident April Herbath expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating that the decision to approve the data center prompted community members to take action. Organizers are facilitating petition signings at the Cotton Patch Cafe at Temple Mall on weekdays. The protestors contend that the data center will have negative long-term consequences for the city and its future generations, benefiting billionaires rather than local residents. The City of Temple released a statement acknowledging that not all residents would agree with every decision but reaffirmed its commitment to listening and maintaining open communication. The Rowan Data Center, identified as the developer, was contacted for comment regarding the community's reaction and the recall effort but has not yet responded.