Skybox Datacenters plans massive facility in Wichita Falls Business Park

Skybox Datacenters proposes a major data center in Wichita Falls, potentially employing 1,000 and tripling the property tax base. Wichita County commissioners will hear the presentation tomorrow. Local leaders are now backing a push for a special session to regulate data centers, raising concerns about water, electricity, noise, and light. A statewide debate on AI data centers is intensifying, with Texas politicians calling for guardrails including a moratorium push. A North Texas Data Center Debate is scheduled for this weekend in Wichita Falls, featuring local and state candidates; Governor Abbott's pause adds urgency. Mayoral candidates have staked positions: Short supports Skybox with specific claims about water and noise, while Poenitzsch is skeptical and demands transparency. A recent forum with Democratic candidates warned of power usage equivalent to a city of 100k and $200 monthly electric bill increases. A forum on Wednesday drew a critical crowd, with photos and coverage reinforcing community skepticism. A new article highlights the data center boom's impact on nearby towns like Electra and Oklaunion, including housing shortages and tax implications.