Development News for Texarkana, Texas
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Agenda 11 MAY 2026 - Media
Monday, May 11, 2026
Residents Urge Caution on Data Center Development, Citing Water, Health, and Economic Risks
During the open forum, residents expressed concerns regarding the proposed data center development. Alicia Utz urged research into data centers' demand on water, land, and power grids, advocating for proactive citizen involvement. Jim Trent warned of a market bubble in AI and predicted the city would be left with a large, incomplete facility and few jobs. Melissa Sturgeon highlighted that data centers are often located in water-stressed areas and can use millions of gallons of water daily, posing health risks through pollution and increasing utility bills. Sandy Burton shared similar concerns about pollution, noise, and utility costs, questioning the promised benefits. Shannon Rose questioned the actual benefits versus the harm to the region and its people. W.D. Lacey and Robert Clark argued that the promised jobs are temporary and primarily for outside tradesmen, predicting increased utility bills and environmental degradation from pollution and noise.
Rezoning from Commercial to Industrial Approved for South Bishop Property
The council considered ordinance number 2026-060, rezoning approximately 25.169 acres at 1000 block of South Bishop from Planned Development Commercial to Planned Development Industrial. A public hearing was held, and no one came forward to address the council. A motion for approval was made and seconded. The ordinance passed.
City Council Approves 20-Year Parks and Trails Master Plan
The council reviewed resolution number 2026-088, approving and adopting the Parks and Trails Master Plan. This plan, developed over a year and a half with community input through public meetings and surveys, will guide the Parks Department for the next 20 years. Key highlights include recommendations for pedestrian trails linking parks, schools, and neighborhoods; increased tree planting for shade; a permanent multi-use event and entertainment facility; expanded sports facilities; a specific master plan for Spring Lake Park; and accessibility improvements like wayfinding, signage, and parking. The plan categorizes recommendations into three priority tiers (0-5, 5-10, 10-20 years) with cost estimates and funding sources.
Sherry Jackson Hawkins Reappointed as Municipal Judge
The council convened into closed session pursuant to Texas Government Code Section 551.074, personnel matters, to discuss or deliberate the reappointment of Sherry L. Jackson as city judge of the city's municipal court of record. Upon reconvening into open session, ordinance number 2026-089 was presented, reappointing Sherry Jackson Hawkins J.D. as municipal judge for a two-year term, approving a compensation agreement, and establishing an effective date. The motion passed unanimously.
City Council Endorses Opportunity Zones Initiative for Economic Development
The council reviewed resolution number 2026-075, supporting the nomination and designation of eligible census tracts within Texarkana as Opportunity Zones. This initiative aims to encourage private investment, economic development, job creation, and community revitalization. Local support is a criterion for Texas to submit eligible zones to the federal government. The resolution demonstrates the council's interest in supporting these programs and development within Texarkana.
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