Hospital Board Eyes Data Center Deal
By Melinda L. Lucas
Shackelford County Hospital District trustees approved grant-related commitments for emergency medical services personnel and authorized legal representation as preliminary discussions continue over a proposed data center development that could have a major financial impact on the district during their regular meeting Monday, July 20.
The board spent much of the meeting discussing “Project North,” a proposed hyperscale data center planned about about 16 miles west of Albany. Trustee Mike Parsons, reporting for a committee that has met with project representatives, said developers have expressed interest in negotiating a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement with the district rather than paying property taxes during a proposed 10-year tax abatement from 2029 through 2039. Based on preliminary estimates, annual payments to the hospital district could range from approximately $5 million during the first five years to about $4 million during the final five years.
Parsons emphasized that discussions are in the early stages and no proposal has been submitted. The committee declined to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) so discussions could remain transparent, and Parsons recommended waiting to see what agreement Shackelford County negotiates before the district considers any action.
“The county has some significant obligations, roads, traffic, law enforcement coverage, that we wouldn’t have,” Parsons said. “We would need to provide EMS, but that’s all.”
He also said unanswered questions remain about water needs, emissions and other community impacts associated with the project.
Trustees unanimously approved engaging an attorney to represent the district during future negotiations.
EMS Director Colby Herron reported that the district has received preliminary approval for a state ambulance grant of up to $500,000 that would provide a new ambulance and all associated equipment once final approval is received.
Trustees also approved a $4,612 commitment for workforce education grants allowing two current EMS employees to pursue paramedic certification. The district will recover about $3,000 if both complete the programs. The employees will sign agreements requiring repayment of district expenses if they withdraw or fail to complete the training and will commit to working for the district for two years after certification.
In other business:
Elizabeth Smyser of Oceans Behavioral Hospital presented information about mental health resources available to local providers, schools and families.
Trustees approved monthly bills after discussing several accounting discrepancies and suggested financial information might be sent to the district’s accountant earlier each month so adjustments and corrections can be made before board meetings.
The board approved sending long-overdue patient accounts to a collection agency after local efforts are unsuccessful.
District administrator Brandi Green reported remodeling began July 20 at the district clinic, including walls, flooring and paint.
Trustees scheduled a budget workshop for Aug. 6 and will present the proposed tax rate and 2026-27 budget at the Aug. 17 meeting.
