Residents urge Harlingen commission to oppose large data centers over water and power fears
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Summary
Multiple residents told the commission they oppose prospective large data‑center projects, citing water consumption, strain on electric reliability, lack of public engagement and potential incentives; callers urged zoning limits, transparency and placing major projects before voters.
Several Harlingen residents used the public comment period on Feb. 10 to press the City Commission to oppose or more tightly regulate proposed large data‑center projects in the region.
Jonathan Jones said the city “has the power and the responsibility to say no” and urged the commission to publish a resolution declaring opposition and to demand that Harlingen Waterworks withdraw from any premature water‑sale discussions with developers named in local reporting.
Cynthia Chabarria told commissioners that a data center “does not contribute or benefit this town in any way that is positive” and asked whether the city has assessed the likely rise in utility rates, the data center’s potable and effluent water demands, and long‑term land‑use impacts. She urged ordinances to limit water and effluent sales and said residents should be fully informed before decisions proceed.
Angela Valdespino called proposed sites “a national‑scale infrastructure” that should not be approved under ordinary commercial zoning, and asked for countywide public review. Nayeli Salas warned of drought risks and noted that other Texas counties had declared emergency water restrictions.
Commissioners did not take action on a data‑center policy at this meeting but several public speakers urged immediate ordinances, ballot measures or formal resolutions and asked the city to coordinate with Harlingen Waterworks and county officials before any binding agreements are finalized.
