The United States is engaged in a high-stakes digital war fueled by artificial intelligence against foreign powers that it cannot afford to lose.
Experts tell us that’s why data centers are so important — they help keep the country running.
They provide the necessary cloudcomputing storage required for everything from banking statements and credit-card purchases to cellphone communication and critical medical information.
But the march to build data centers must be tempered by weighing legitimate community concerns as well as reasoned debate that takes all views into consideration.
There is no denying data centers are vital to 21st century life. In addition, while they only employ small staffs, they offer a revenue boost during the construction phase by paying thousands of workers.
Those laborers in turn spend that money and power up the local economy.
Just as important, data centers pour tax revenue into local government coffers that can be used for everything from adding police officers to road upgrades and better schools.
According to reports, up to 15 data centers are in Williamson County, with others — such as Blueprint Data Centers in Taylor — on the way.
Not everybody is happy.
The Taylor site remains in legal contention after neighbors lost an initial court battle. Another data center recently pulled out of Hutto following a public outcry. In San Marcos, residents were able to convince city fathers to pass on a potential data-center initiative.
Critics worry about the impact data centers have on water resources and the electrical grid. Opposition to the industry is growing, which is why the Legislature during the next session is likely to tackle some thorny issues that balance locals’ concerns against the mega-dollars data centers bring to government programs.
Data centers are spreading across Texas and the wave is not stopping. By 2030, according to some estimates, the Lone Star State could be the biggest data center market in the country.
Which is why it’s vital first-term Taylor Mayor Jim Buzan and his City Council colleagues ensure they have a cohesive and evolving policy regarding permits and tax abatements for any high-tech complexes coming to town.
That also means working closely with the Taylor Economic Development Corp.
The same can be said for other local governments including Hutto.
Politicians are expected to toil on behalf of those who elect them, and that means improving services while limiting the tax burden. Data centers fill that need.
On the other hand, listen to what the people say and remain sensitive to their concerns.
The march of progress doesn’t mean you have to trample the local populace.
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