As a resident of Freestone County, Texas, I have witnessed firsthand the detrimental impact that data centers have on our beloved community. The sprawling structures, often touted as necessary for technological advancement, pose significant threats to both our environment and the health of local residents.

Data centers are notorious for their massive energy consumption and water usage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers can consume up to 200 terawatt-hours of electricity annually, which is around 6% of global electricity consumption. This not only contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions but also strains our local power grid. In a community reliant on its natural landscapes, the construction of such power-hungry facilities is both unsustainable and damaging.

Moreover, these centers require immense amounts of water for cooling purposes. In Texas, where water resources can already be scarce, this diversion can lead to significant shortages impacting both residential and agricultural needs. The Water Environment Federation reports that data centers globally accounted for over 600 million gallons of daily water consumption by 2025. This is water that could be better used supporting our local ecosystems and agricultural landscapes.

Furthermore, the construction and operation of data centers often lead to increased noise pollution, traffic, and the potential devaluation of property due to industrialization of rural landscapes. These effects threaten not only our way of life but the overall health and well-being of our community members.

We must prioritize sustainable development that advances technology without sacrificing our environment and quality of life. I urge the commissioners of Freestone County to impose a ban on the construction of new data centers within our region. By doing so, we can preserve the integrity of our natural surroundings and ensure a healthier future for our families. Sign the petition today to protect Freestone County from the harmful impacts of data centers.