Edinburg residents warn of data center impacts during City Council public comments

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, Edinburg Data Centers

Arnoldo Mata

Edinburg, TX – Two speakers used public comment at the Jan. 6 Edinburg City Council meeting to raise concerns about potential AI and data center development, warning of impacts on electricity costs, water demand, air quality and neighborhood safety.

Edinburg public comment focuses on AI data centers

Jose Rodriguez told the council that data center growth tied to artificial intelligence has created problems in other parts of the country and urged local leaders to ask detailed questions about infrastructure, costs and accountability.

“AI is huge. It’s a rapid growing thing,” Rodriguez said, but added that communities have reported serious impacts from facilities elsewhere. He referenced concerns about turbines and emissions, saying residents in one area are “now four times more likely to have cancer” and that “their neighborhoods smell like gas.”

Costs to upgrade the electricity grid

Rodriguez asked who would pay for electric-system upgrades and whether residents could face higher rates.

“If this project needs new lines, substations, or other electrical upgrades to handle the load, who pays the company, the utility, or residents through higher bills?” he said. “Can you guarantee residents won’t see a higher electricity bill because of this?”

He also raised questions about reliability during emergencies and about water use, even where developers claim closed-loop cooling systems.

‘It’s a matter of when’

“It’s not in a matter of if, it’s a matter of when,” Rodriguez said, questioning what happens if water needs change later and who would be financially responsible for spills or worst-case events.

Concerns include trucks, pollution and water supply in the Rio Grande Valley
Marilyn Lara told the council data centers can drive up utility costs and place heavy demand on an already stressed electric grid. She also described concerns about increased construction and service traffic.

“Data centers use enormous amounts of energy and raise utility bills in their surrounding areas,” Lara said. “They put a massive strain on the power grid.”

Heavy truck traffic

Lara said heavy truck activity can affect neighborhood safety and cited examples she said she has seen in other communities where drivers ignored stop signs and damaged fencing near schools.

She also warned about noise, light and air pollution, saying young children can be especially vulnerable.

“Young kids’ lungs are small, developing and more sensitive,” Lara said.

Water usage concerns

Lara also returned to water concerns, saying Texas water supplies are limited and questioning what happens to cooling water after use.

“There’s no guarantee as to whether these centers will be releasing water used for cooling their machines back into waterways,” she said.

Lara said she opposed major technology companies locating AI-related data centers in Edinburg, arguing the tradeoffs are too high.

“I’m categorically against AI data centers like … Amazon, Meta and the like coming to Edinburg,” she said. “The hazards to our economy and health don’t justify the payoff.”

City council response limits under Texas Open Meetings Act

City officials did not respond directly to the comments, noting during the meeting that the council cannot discuss matters not posted as agenda items under state open-meetings requirements.

Source — City of Edinburg.