The Doña Ana County Commission voted Friday to give a massive taxpayer handout to backers of the proposed Project Jupiter data center. The vote came after five hours of public comment in an extremely emotional and tense packed public meeting.
A massive effort from the community was undertaken to knock on doors, organize calls, attend public meetings. Various groups came together to call on the commission to simply delay the vote. Despite those efforts, the commission still voted 4-1 to pass the proposal with minimal acknowledgment of the public’s input.
The proposed IRB met with widespread skepticism and resistance from local residents, environmental groups, and community organizations like Empowerment Congress and NM Environmental Law Center.
How did Project Jupiter happen?
Backers of Project Jupiter rushed it through in three weeks. Multiple writers, organizations and experts pointed out that delaying the vote would be in everyone’s best interests. It was clear from public testimony during the meeting that many people were concerned about a host of issues. One of the major issues brought up was the likely exaggerated costs versus benefits being promised to the community.
Hardworking New Mexicans recognized that the deal would have benefited the project’s ultra wealthy investors, including those with ties to the Trump administration, at the expense of the county’s resources and environment.
For example, Project Jupiter’s environmental impact is a significant concern. Data centers consume vast amounts of energy and water, contributing to environmental degradation and strain on local resources. The arid region of southern New Mexico is particularly vulnerable to water scarcity, making the project’s water requirements a pressing issue. Additionally, that area has had water quality issues that have been making headlines in the last year already.
The approved IRB is also one of the largest in our nation’s history, and its implications are far-reaching. The litany of business owners and “economic development” who support the data center project have raised concerns with the local community. Many of those supporters have ties with the current federal administration. Additionally, accusations of back-room deals at the New Mexico Legislature and with the Governor’s office have made the public wary of the true intentions of those backing Project Jupiter.
Where do we go next?
The approval of the IRB highlights the need for continued community vigilance and activism. There have already been calls on social media to recall the county commissioners who voted for the IRB, or at least to primary the two who are up for election next year. Either way, the community must remain engaged and hold the commission accountable for the decisions they make. If the project does indeed begin to materialize, it’s imperative that we ensure that the promised benefits actually do actually come to fruition.
To that end, community members should:
* Stay informed about Project Jupiter’s development and its effects on the local environment and economy
* Attend public hearings and meetings to voice concerns and provide feedback
* Organize and participate in advocacy efforts to push for greater transparency and accountability
* Demand that the commission prioritize the needs and well-being of local residents over corporate interests
In the face of this decision, it is more important than ever to recognize the power of collective action and community organizing. By standing together, residents can make their voices heard and shape the future of their county. The fight for a better tomorrow is ongoing, and it requires the continued engagement and activism of the community.