Lubbock residents voice concerns over data centers during city council meeting
Lubbock residents voiced significant concerns regarding data center development during a city council meeting, primarily focusing on water and electricity consumption and the potential impact on lower-income communities. While a state representative advocated for the economic benefits, the mayor indicated that more research is needed before any data center proposals are considered.
Residents of Lubbock, Texas, gathered at a city council meeting to express their widespread concerns over the potential development of data centers in the city. The meeting, which followed a survey revealing public apprehension about resource consumption, began with Mayor Mark McBrayer and City Manager Jarrett Atkinson, with Assistant City Manager Erik Rejino presenting projections for water and electricity needs.
Councilwoman Christy Martinez-Garcia articulated worries that data centers would disproportionately be built in already industrialized districts one and two. Public comments highlighted frustration, questioning the economic benefits for average citizens, accusing developers of targeting lower-income communities, and challenging the accuracy of projected water usage figures. Residents urged the council to prioritize citizens over private interests.
Conversely, Lubbock state representative Carl Tepper strongly advocated for data centers, dismissing public concerns as