The Taylor City Council meeting on July 24, 2025, focused on significant community concerns regarding the proposed Bland blueprint data center at 1601 Martin Luther King Boulevard. The meeting featured multiple residents voicing their opposition to the project, citing potential health risks and a lack of transparency from city officials.

The first speaker, a resident, raised alarms about the noise pollution associated with the data center, which is expected to produce noise levels around 85 decibels, potentially reaching 70 decibels in nearby neighborhoods. This level, while within the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) guidelines, is at the upper limit for preventing hearing loss. The speaker emphasized that low-frequency hums and vibrations from data centers could lead to health issues such as stress and anxiety, urging the council to halt the project.

Following this, Lisa Drummond expressed concerns about the transparency of the environmental impact study commissioned by the city. She questioned the approval process for the study, its cost, and whether it was put out for bids. Drummond argued that taxpayer money should not fund an environmental study for a private developer and warned that this could set a concerning precedent for future developments.

Alicia Davenport, another resident, highlighted the project's proximity to historically underserved communities, raising issues about potential air pollution, water consumption, and energy demands. She criticized the lack of public access to the environmental review conducted by HDR, a firm hired by the developer, and called for a pause on approvals until the report is made public and an independent study is conducted.

Carrie Deanna concluded the public comments by urging the council to consider the long-term implications of their decisions. She emphasized the importance of responsible development that prioritizes community health and well-being over industrial interests.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between community members and city officials regarding the proposed data center, with residents demanding greater transparency and accountability in the decision-making process. The council's next steps remain uncertain as they navigate these pressing concerns from the community.