Residents of League City voiced significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding the proposed construction of battery energy storage systems (BESS) in their neighborhood. Mary Gibson, a local resident, highlighted the community's initial lack of awareness about BESS technology and expressed frustration over the proximity of two proposed facilities, which she argued violate city ordinance prohibiting such installations within 1,500 feet of each other. Gibson urged city officials to conduct thorough due diligence on the permits for these projects, emphasizing the need for protective measures for residents.

Justin Russell, another resident with extensive IT and cybersecurity experience, raised alarms about potential threats to local infrastructure. He referenced recent testimony from the FBI director regarding China's increasing focus on targeting U.S. infrastructure for disruption, particularly in areas near military installations like those in League City. Russell called for stricter regulations, proposing that the distance requirement from residential areas be increased from 200 feet to at least 2,000 feet to mitigate risks associated with the proposed facilities.

David Kaufman, a retired environmental engineer, supported these concerns by sharing personal experiences related to environmental impacts from the proposed sites. He noted that recent weather conditions could exacerbate risks associated with the facilities, further stressing the need for careful consideration of their locations.

The discussions reflect a growing unease among residents about the implications of new energy technologies and the potential risks they pose to community safety and well-being. As the city council deliberates on these matters, the voices of concerned citizens underscore the importance of transparency and community engagement in decision-making processes.