Residents press commissioners on "Project Mars," citing water, wildlife and transparency concerns

Dozens of residents told the Torrance County Board of Commissioners on July 29 they opposed a preliminary proposal referred to as "Project Mars," urging the board to protect local water, agriculture and wildlife before any agreement moves forward. Public commenters said the county has provided limited information and asked for an environmental or impact assessment and opportunities for public input, including the possibility of a referendum.

"Kieran" Byron opened public comment by identifying himself and expressing health and environmental worries tied to similar facilities elsewhere; he said, "you can call me Buttercup," and urged that residents be allowed to make informed decisions about remaining in the community. Other speakers described a rapidly organized petition (more than 400 signatures reported within days), raised concerns about reports of stillborn calves near comparable sites, and asked whether any contracts or financial commitments had already been executed without public knowledge.

Commissioners acknowledged the public's concerns and repeated that the proposal remains at a preliminary stage; Chairman Ryan Schwebach said no contract has been signed and that the County is still gathering information. Commissioner Linda Jaramillo clarified that, based on her understanding, the opportunity under consideration involves an aerial defense manufacturing facility rather than an AI or data center. Commissioners committed to placing substantive items on future agendas and to notifying the public if/when formal decisions are required.