The right of Bastrop County residents to affordable power, water, and a safe natural environment are more important than the profits of data center owners. State, county and local officials must take immediate action against reckless data center expansion that sacrifices public funds, public trust, and our environment. The Bastrop County Democratic Party calls for a moratorium on data center construction and expansion in Bastrop County until the full effects on our communities and environment are known and our residents are protected. Our county commissioners surrendered scarce tax dollars to data center developers without fully considering the effects on our communities or environment. The commissioners owe the public full information, public debate, and a democratic process before risking our quality of life and tax dollars. Furthermore, we call upon Governor Greg Abbott to convene a special legislative session to address the impact of data centers on our scarce natural resources and cost of living, and to provide a comprehensive framework for local control and input. His irresponsible policies accelerated data center growth in Texas. Therefore, it is his responsibility to protect all Texans from the consequences.
