New Boston Special Development Industrial Corp. Board of Directors meeting, Sept. 2, 2026

The New Boston Special Development Industrial Corporation (SDIC) Board of Directors, in conjunction with the Hooks SDIC and Bowie County, approved the sale of over 580 acres in Bowie County, Texas, to developers for an artificial intelligence data center. This decision came despite extensive opposition from local residents who have voiced concerns to county and city officials for months. The Bowie County Commissioners Court had previously approved the sale on August 28.

During the board meeting, residents expressed strong disapproval, citing potential negative impacts on health, property values, and the environment, including air and water quality. Speakers highlighted the prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in Bowie County and warned of the risks associated with data center fires. Cara Craig, a resident living near the proposed site, shared her personal investment in the land for her children's future and emphasized that the community's well-being should outweigh corporate interests.

Concerns were also raised about the transparency of the process, with questions about the SDIC's budget projections for 2026, which included revenue from the land sale and funding for utility extensions and studies, suggesting the project had been contemplated for some time. Residents called for more transparency and a seat at the table in deciding how tax money is used, urging the board to vote against the sale to protect the community's long-term interests and prevent issues like increased rent and potential homelessness observed in other data center communities.

Ultimately, a motion to approve the sale of the real property and authorize the execution of closing documents was made by a board member, seconded, and carried with "ayes," despite public pleas to reject it.