Harlingen Data Center Sparks Fierce Resident Debate

Harlingen city officials are weighing a controversial data center proposal by Fluidstack, with construction slated to begin in the fall. Residents have voiced significant opposition during a packed city hall meeting, urging commissioners to deny the company's request to discharge runoff into a city-owned canal. In response, the city commission has agreed to schedule a town hall meeting to allow further public input before a final vote.

Fluidstack is offering $7 million to widen the canal and an additional $20 million for city infrastructure upgrades in exchange for the runoff discharge approval. The company states its data center will use a closed-loop cooling system, requiring an initial 400,000 gallons of water with no daily draw, and promises minimal noise pollution. Despite these assurances, many residents remain concerned about the potential strain on local resources.