County commissioners OK reinvestment zones

Milam County Commissioners approved the creation of several reinvestment zones for projects around the former ALCOA site on Monday.

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve public hearings for the creation of a reinvestment zone for Dory Creek Data Mining Center. The company is looking to invest $414 million into the project. 

They also voted 3-2, with Commissioners Henry Hubnik and Donald Shuffield against, to approve public hearings for the creation of a reinvestment zone for Burgos Solar. That project would bring in a $120 million investment. It is located in the Thorndale area.

Both public hearings are set for Oct. 24. 

Three other projects were tabled. Those included Adelite Storage and Petunia Storage battery storage projects and the Camino Santiago Solar project. Commissioners asked for more time to revue the two battery storage projects and Commissioner Shuffield suggested that the court might want to wait and see how current solar projects go before approving any more abatements.

Commissioners also approved the consolidation of the Old Town Train Museum and Rockdale Historical Society and to send out for bids for repairs and renovations of the former Juvenile Probation Office for use by Old Town Cameron display.

In other business commissioners also: approved a road use agreement with Yaupon Solar; approved utility easements, subdivision issues, and entry and waiver of claims; proclaimed Constitution Week; heard a presentation by Temple College on secondary education opportunities in Milam County; approved Interlocal agreements and the disposal of surplus items; accepted a contribution of $1,750 for home delivered meals to Hill Country Community Action.