Temple residents raise concerns over proposed Rowan data center expansion

Temple residents attended a City Council meeting to voice concerns regarding Rowan Digital Infrastructure's proposed data center expansion. The company presented on the local impacts of the project on power and water. Despite resident concerns, the City Council approved the annexation of over 185 acres and the rezoning of 300 acres from agriculture for the data center. However, Mayor Tim Davis tabled a vote on an economic plan that would continue to provide tax cuts for the project. Residents expressed strong opposition to granting tax abatements or special treatment to companies that they believe are not contributing fairly to the local economy, arguing that such companies should instead create good jobs. The next City Council meeting, scheduled for May 21st, will include another reading of the city's new economic development policy.