Congresswoman Escobar Again Calls on Meta to Hold Public Listening Sessions on El Paso Data Center

With the project moving forward, residents continue to raise concerns about strain on local utilities, potential increases in household costs, and the broader environmental footprint. Congresswoman Escobar stressed that the community must not be left in the dark and should have a direct voice in shaping decisions that will impact El Paso's future.

The letter can be found in its entirety below and here.

"I write to follow up on the letter I sent on March 25, 2026, requesting that Meta host a public

community listening session. El Pasoans deserve clear, direct answers about how this new data center will impact their water and energy bills, cost of living, air quality, and environment.

"Since my initial outreach, there has been meaningful progress on a parallel effort that underscores the importance of transparency and community engagement. Following requests from my office, Army leadership held the first of a number of public listening sessions on April 22nd, 2026, regarding the White House's proposed data center at Fort Bliss. That initial session provided El Pasoans, particularly those living closest to the project, an opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and engage directly with decision makers. I will be ensuring further engagement, especially as more information becomes available, and I have no doubt the Army will agree.

"As I mentioned in my previous letter, Meta's project will have significant and lasting impacts on El Paso. Constituents continue to raise questions about energy demands, rising utility costs, water usage, and environmental implications. These are not abstract concerns - they affect families, neighborhoods, and the future sustainability of our region. While my office has sought clarity on these issues, many questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding how Meta will meet its energy needs and fulfill its commitment to water restoration. At a moment when another major data center project in our community is engaging in public input and transparency, it is both reasonable and necessary for Meta to meet that same standard.

"Respectfully, I request, again, that Meta commit to hosting a public community listening session in El Paso. I also reiterate my invitation for Meta to participate in a town hall discussion alongside local stakeholders, including local utility companies that have agreed to participate, to ensure our community has access to complete and accurate information. I have asked Mayor Renard Johnson and County Judge Ricardo Samaniego to help me ensure your participation.

"El Pasoans must not be left in the dark about decisions that will shape their future. Building trust requires more than investment. Rather, it requires transparency, engagement, and a willingness to listen.

"I look forward to your response and to working together to ensure that El Pasoans are fully informed and meaningfully included in this process.

"Thank you for your consideration."