Temple approves third Rowan data center at nearly 8-hour meeting; recall planned

The Temple City Council approved the development of Rowan Ranger, the third data center project by Rowan Digital Infrastructure, following a marathon meeting lasting nearly eight hours. Despite an overwhelming turnout of approximately 150 Temple residents who voiced strong opposition, the council voted 4-0-1 to annex 185 acres, rezone 302 acres, and adopt a development agreement. Council member Zoe Grant abstained, citing a potential conflict of interest related to her nonprofit seeking funding from Rowan. Opponents, including residents Sarah Royer, Nicholas Stone, and C.J. Grisham, vehemently argued against the project, raising concerns about water usage, environmental impact, and the council's accountability to citizens over shareholders. Rowan representatives, including Senior Manager of Procurement Steve Edwards and Director of Water Strategy Chris Kurtz, explained the company's plans, including a 10-year, 50% tax abatement after construction and the creation of 120 jobs. They also detailed the use of closed-loop water systems, utilizing city water for initial charging and flushing, and a glycol-water mix trucked in, in addition to potable water for employees. Following the approval, opposition leaders Sarah and Joe Royer announced their intention to organize a recall petition against Mayor Tim Davis, Mayor pro tem Jessica Walker, and Councilmember Mike Pilkington, who voted in favor of the project. Residents had accused council members of dismissiveness and corruption, though Mayor Davis denied these claims and refuted rumors of signing an NDA with Meta. The data centers represent a minimum investment of $2.1 billion and are projected to generate at least $8.4 million in property taxes during the abatement period.