EL PASO, Texas – (KFOX14/CBS4) — An influx of massive data centers is transforming parts of the borderland, prompting El Paso County Commissioner Jackie Arroyo Butler to call for a slowdown and the establishment of ground rules before more projects move in.
One of those projects currently being built is an over $1 billion center being built by Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, off US 54 and Stan Roberts Sr. Avenue in Northeast El Paso.
Area where Meta data center will be built.
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Butler emphasized the need for clearer expectations for future developments.
“My intention is to do as much data gathering and information sharing as possible and have those conversations, listen to the community,” Butler said.
Butler is proposing a best practices guide to help residents understand the long-term impacts before new projects are approved.
Mark Baugh reports on the El Paso County Commissioner who wants to establish rules for data centers coming to El Paso County
“I think the goal for a best practices guide is to, to see what’s happening nationally,” Butler added.
Currently, two data centers are under construction in El Paso County, including one being developed in a green field located at 9879 North Loop Drive, near Socorro, according to a report by Data Center Dynamics.
While El Paso County does not control land use or utilities, Butler believes the guide could empower residents with better information and a stronger voice.
Residents have expressed mixed feelings, with some concerned about environmental impacts and others welcoming job opportunities.
The proposed guidelines would apply only to future projects, and commissioners will discuss the item at their next meeting on Monday.
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