Texas Lawmaker Pushes Back on Archer County Data Center
A state legislator who represents Wichita Falls, Texas and surrounding counties near the Red River is tackling the issue of data centers—including one proposed project drawing growing attention.
Lawmaker Threatens to Involve Governor Abbott
Rep. James Frank said he plans to ask Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to stop a proposed data center project in Archer County if the company does not provide information and answers to concerns raised by constituents.
Archer County sits at the south edge of Wichita Falls and, in a Facebook posting, Rep. Frank said he has talked to developers of the Three Way Road project and urged them to hold an informational public meeting.
Balancing Economic Benefits and Public Concerns
“Data center development has very quickly become one of the biggest political issues in the 14 counties of House District 69. I have heard from many people excited about the enormous economic opportunities that these projects can create. I have also heard from many people with very serious and legitimate concerns about what data centers might mean for their property and our area,” he wrote.
While he threatened to ask the governor to halt the project, the legislator also emphasized the potential upside.
“From a big-picture standpoint, I have not seen any opportunity in this area with greater potential for positive economic impact than the construction of data centers. The property taxes alone can have huge positive implications for both property tax relief as well as additional funds for schools, roads, etc. Add to that large employment numbers during construction phase and solid jobs (albeit smaller numbers) after construction and you have a recipe for positive local impact.”
Proposed Requirements for Data Center Projects
Despite recognizing the economic benefits, Rep. Frank said he believes every data center built in Texas should meet strict requirements before connecting to the state electric grid or using Texas water supplies.
He said the security of the electric grid must be protected and “new developments must not threaten the reliability or affordability of electricity for Texas families and businesses already depending on it.”
One proposal would require all new data centers to be “interruptible”, meaning power could be redirected to residential or critical needs during emergencies.
Water, Noise and Infrastructure Concerns
Heavy water demand has also been a key concern. Rep. Frank said water conservation is non-negotiable, adding that closed-loop or low-demand water systems should be required for any new project.
He also called for limits on noise pollution and protections for local roads impacted by construction traffic.
Frank said developers should be required to enter into road use agreements with the Texas Department of Transportation before construction begins.
Limits on Tax Incentives and Local Investment
His list of proposed requirements also includes limits on tax abatements and a focus on reinvesting economic gains into rural infrastructure in the region.
The debate highlights the growing tension between the rapid expansion of data centers and concerns over energy demand, water usage, and local impact across Texas and neighboring states.