Eastland County Today Seeks Answers For Residents

Newspaper encourages transparency, factual information and an open community discussion about possible development in Eastland County.

EASTLAND COUNTY, Texas — A possible data center development in Eastland County near Flatwood has raised questions among Eastland County residents about water use, electricity demand, infrastructure, economic effects and the future of the surrounding rural community.

While discussion continues, many important details about the proposed development remain County Today believes residents deserve accurate information, transparency and an opportunity to hear directly from those involved.

The newspaper’s purpose is to distinguish documented facts from unanswered questions and community concerns while encouraging constructive dialogue among all parties.

What Has Been Re-

Previous editions of Eastland County Today have reported on Eastland County Commissioners Court meetings and public discussions concerning data centers and other large-scale developments.

In its coverage of the May 26, 2026, commissioners court meeting, Eastland County Today reported that residents expressed views and concerns about data centers, solar farms and wind turbines.

The newspaper also reported that a petition was presented in connection sioners court meeting. The petition was discussed in the broader context of residents’ concerns about these types of developments. The available reporting does not establish that the petition concerned the proposed Flatwood-area data center exclusively.

In its coverage of the sioners court meeting, Eastland County Today reported that commissioners unanimously adopted a resolution opposing solar farms.

That resolution spefarms and should not be interpreted as a county resolution opposing the proposed data center.

The newspaper also David Hullum’s statement that no tax abatement had been discussed or agreed upon at the May meeting.

Eastland County Today has also reported on the county’s opposition to a proposed Oncor 765-kilovolt transmission-line route through the area. That transmission-line project is separate from the possible data center development, although regional electricity infrastructure remains a subject of community interest.

At the state level, Gov. Greg Abbott issued directives in September concerning data center permitting, electricity reliability and water-use information.

On Oct. 15, 2026, Tex-Paxton announced that his 156 data center developments statewide seeking current and accurate water- use information.

These statewide actions provide important context but do not estabstatus, water requirements or construction plans of a Flatwood-area project.

reported County Judge as Attorney General Ken office had sent letters to lish the specific permitting

What Remains Unknown at This Time Several important questions about the possible data center development remain unanswered or unconfirmed.

These include: Project plans: Who would develop and operate the facility, its pro- posed size and its final

design.

Electricity: How much electricity would be required, where that electricity would come from and whether additional infrastructure would be needed.

Water: Where the facility would obtain its water, how much it would use and whether local water resources could be affected.

Permitting: Which local, state or federal permits would be required and whether applications or approvals have been issued.

Construction: When construction might begin and how long the project would take to complete.

Employment: How many temporary construction jobs and permanent positions might be created.

Economic impact: or costs the development

What potential benefits

might bring to Eastland County.

Tax incentives: Whether tax abatements or other economic development incentives have been requested, discussed or approved.

Community impact: What effects, if any, the development could have on roads, neighboring properties, public services and the surrounding rural area.

Until official docu ments or statements from appropriate parties are available, these matters should be considered unknown rather than assumed.

Public discussion, business registrations, property transactions or published notices do not, by themselves, establish that a proposed project has received all required permits or will proceed as anticipated.

Community Questions and Concerns Residents have raised concerns about possible effects on water resources, electricity infrastructure, roads, neighboring properties and the rural character of Eastland County.

These concerns should not be confused with conever, they represent questions that deserve careful consideration and documented answers.

firmed outcomes. How

Residents may also want to know whether environmental or infrastructure studies have been completed, what public hearings may be required and how citizens can participate in decisions affecting their communities.

Economic development can bring opportunities, but understanding potential impacts is important both potential benefits and

for informed community discussion.

The goal should be to obtain accurate information so residents can evaluate the proposal based on facts rather than speculation.

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- Monday, October 19, 2026 Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked) Friday, October 23, 2026

Last Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

- Friday, October 30, 2026 Last day to Receive Ballot by Mail - Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is not postmarked, OR Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (next business day after Election Day) at 5:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply)4.

EARLY VOTING SCHEDULE 2026 NOVEMBER 3RD ELECTION October 19, 2026 - October 30, 2026 MAIN LOCATION: Eastland County Courthouse 100 W. Main St. Suite 104A Eastland, TX 76448 Monday, Oct. 19, 2026: 8am - 5pm Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026 - 10am - 4pm Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Tuesday, Oct. 27, 20206 - 7am - 7pm Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 - 7am - 7pm

action.

to information and fulfill These notices may include public meetings, hearings, elections, bids, property matters, ordinances, public sales and other governmental or legal proceedings.

Publishing a notice does not mean the newspaper supports or opposes the action described. The purpose is to provide public access applicable publication requirements.

Residents are encouraged to review legal notices and public notices published in Eastland County Today, county records, meeting agendas, minutes and other publicly available documents.

A published notice does not necessarily mean that every permit or approval associated with a proposed development has been obtained.

Keeping residents informed about these matters is an important responsibility of a along with official

community newspaper.

Eastland Count Today Interested in Community Town Hall Meeting Eastland County Today is interested in seeing a community town hall meeting. The purpose would be to provide an open, respectful forum where questions can be asked, concerns can be heard and information can be shared directly among all involved. Community participation is encouraged.

Staying Informed

Residents are encouraged to follow Eastland County Today’s ongoing reporting, review public meeting agendas and minutes, monitor legal and public notices, attend commissioners court meetings and seek information from project representatives.

Eastland County commissioners court agendas and meeting information are available at www.eastlandcounty. gov/agendacenter.

As additional documented information becomes available, Eastland County Today will continue reporting developments affecting Eastland County residents.

An informed community is a stronger community. By encouraging open appropriate officials and

communication, asking questions and seeking documented answers, residents and decision-makers can better understand the opportunities, challenges and choices that may shape Eastland County’s future.

Contact Eastland County Today

Email: eastlandcountytoday@gmail.com Visit: 215 S. Seaman St., Eastland, TX Phone: 254-629-1707

Editor’s Note

Texas state officials.

The commissioners court meetings, dates and county actions referenced in this article were reported in previous editions of Eastland County Today. References to statewide actions are based on announcements from This article distinguishes previously reported and documented actions from information about the possible Flatwood-area data center that remains Questions and concerns included in this article should not be interpreted as established impacts or outcomes.

ECT welcomes additional documentation, corrections, factual information and responses from public unconfirmed. officials, project

representatives and other knowledgeable parties.

The newspaper’s publication of legal or public notices does not constitute endorsement of the matters described in those notices.

*****

Sources and Public Information

Eastland County Today, County Residents Express Views, Concerns at County Commissioners Court: https://www. eastlandcountytoday. com/ article/6272%2Ccountyresidents- express-viewsconcerns- at- countycommissioners- court Eastland County Today, County Commissioners Vote to Adopt Resolution Opposing Solar Farms: https://www. eastlandcountytoday. com/ article/6520%2Ccountycommissioners- votetoadopt- resolutionopposing- solar-farms Eastland County Today, County Court Passes Resolution Opposing Oncor Proposed Project: h t t p s : / / w w w . eastlandcountytoday. com/ article/5924%2Ccountycourt- passes-resolutiono pposing-oncorproposed-project Eastland County Commissioners Court agendas: https://www. eastlandcounty.gov/ - ECT Staff Report

TWO VISIONS FOR OUR CITY: WHO WILL REPRESENT YOU?

Local elections are about a clear choice in direction. When choosing our next City Commissioner, voters deserve to know exactly where the candidates stand and what their priorities will be on day one.

In a public statement, candidate for commissioner Bobby Blackwell laid out his priorities, stating: “The cornerstone of a city commissioner is to support the city, its employees and city management and to remove roadblocks that will allow them to get their job done.”

While I appreciate Bobby’s transparency, his platform highlights a fundamental difference in how we view the role of a City Commissioner.

When a candidate’s primary focus is to remove roadblocks for city management, it means their attention is directed inward— protecting the system, expanding the bureaucracy, and making things easier for the government itself. The city management and the bureaucracy already have a powerful voice in City Hall.

But who is looking out for you?

new projects, my first

My name is Sam Williams, and my philosophy is entirely different. I believe a City Commissioner’s true cornerstone is to listen to your concerns and use your tax dollars responsibly.

I look at government from the outside in. My priority will never be clearing paths for the bureaucracy; my priority will be standing up for the families, small businesses, and hardworking individuals who fund our city. When city management asks for budget increases or question will always be: How does this impact the taxpayers?

On Election Day, you have a clear choice. You can vote to support the system, or you can vote to support the citizen. I will represent the taxpayers, not the bureaucracy.

I’d appreciate your vote for Sam Williams for City Commissioner, November 3rd. Early voting starts 10/19/26.

Follow the campaign on Facebook: Sam Williams for Commissioner

Political Advertisement, paid for by Sam Williams.

Always remember: Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared!

Polls will open at 7:00 a.m. at each location Voters may vote at any open vote center on election day (November 3, 2026).

Election Day Vote Centers:

Pct 1- Eastland County Courthouse - 100 W. Main St. Set 104A Eastland, TX Pct 2- Olden Community Center - 106 CR 447 Olden, TX Pct 3 - Ranger Community Center - 718 Pine St. Ranger, Tx Pct 4 - Desdemona Activity Center - 6035 HWY 8 Desdemona, Tx Pct 5 - Gorman Community Center - 118 S. Kent St. Gorman, Tx Pct 6 - Carbon Community Center - 201 W. Anthracite Carbon, Tx Pct. 7 - Rising Star Fire Station- 127 N. Main St. Rising Star, Tx Pct. 8 - Cisco First Baptist Church (Family Life Center)-800 Ave. E. Cisco, Tx Pct. 9 - Lake Leon Baptist Church- 2601 FM 2214 Eastland, Tx

The Center is hosting a Fish Fry on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Our volunteers prepare  fried  fish,  chicken  tenders, beans, french fries, coleslaw, potato salad, hush puppies, and of course, some sweet treats for dessert!

Cost is by donation. Come enjoy a great meal and community with us.

The event brought together individuals with special needs, their families, and an incredible group of volunteers for laughter, and lasting memories. With the sun shining and the peaceful waters of Lake Leon providing the perfect backdrop, participants enjoyed a wonderful the shoreline and aboard boats generously provided by volunteers. throughout the day, and as participants reeled in catch after catch. Whether heading out onto the lake, everyone had the opportunity to experience the of spending time outdoors with family and friends.

The success of the event would not have been possible without the generosity and dedication of the many volunteers and family members who attended. From helping participants bait providing boat rides, encouragement, and plenty of smiles, the volunteers helped create a welcoming and memorable experience for everyone.

A special thank you goes to the sponsors whose generous donations helped make the event possible. Their support played an important role in bringing this special day to life and ensuring participants and their families could enjoy a day filled with fun and

fellowship. A special thank you goes to LaMancha Lake Ranch for generously donating the beautiful event location and housing, allowing families and volunteers to enjoy the wonderful setting on Lake Leon and making this special gathering possible.

McDonald’s generously provided breakfast burritos to help everyone start the day off right. Farm Bureau Insurance went above and beyond by preparing delicious sausage wraps and hot dogs and providing all the sides for the meal. Their generosity ensured everyone had a delicious lunch and another opportunity to gather, visit and enjoy the day together.

We would also like to thank Tropical Ice, who stepped in at the last minute and came through when they were needed most. Their willingness (Continued From Page Page 1... C.A.S.T. for Kids)

Atmos Energy donates to Meals on Wheels

Their willingness to help on short notice was greatly appreciated and added another special touch to the event.

Special recognition goes to Raena St Peter for generously sharing her photography skills and capturing the smiles, excitement, and special moments throughout the day. Her photographs will help preserve the memories of this wonderful event for participants and their families for years to come.

The C.A.S.T. for at LaMancha Lake Ranch was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to create opportunities for people with special needs.

Kids fishing event

- Monday, October 19, 2026

Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (Received, not Postmarked) Friday, October 23, 2026

Last Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

- Friday, October 30, 2026 Last day to Receive Ballot by Mail - Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (Election Day) at 7:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is not postmarked, OR Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (next business day after Election Day) at 5:00 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7:00 p.m. at the location

of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply)4.

EARLY VOTING SCHEDULE 2026 NOVEMBER 3RD ELECTION October 19, 2026 - October 30, 2026 MAIN LOCATION: Eastland County Courthouse

100 W. Main St. Suite 104A Eastland, TX 76448

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026: 8am - 5pm Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 - 8am - 5pm Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026 - 10am - 4pm Monday, Oct. 26, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Tuesday, Oct. 27, 20206 - 7am - 7pm Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026 - 7am - 7pm Friday, Oct. 30, 2026 - 7am - 7pm

ELECTION DAY VOTING:

The Ranger Historical Preservation Society, (RHPS) is a 501(c)(3) and consists of 5 directors who care deeply about this community. Our purpose is to preserve yesterday, educate today and inspire tomorrow —and to do our part to keep the history, traditions and spirit of Ranger alive.

As Chairperson for the Roaring Ranger Days Papageant entries and winners of the special category created for the beautiful babies, toddlers, young ladies and parents who made their participation in the parade possible.

Also, I would like to address something I believe is important to all of us as a community. Events such as Roaring Ranger Days do not happen by themselves. They are made possible because special individuals who are willing to give of themselves - often giving countless hours, working long hours after their jobs and more hours after others have gone home, solving problems that most people never know existed, and continuing to work simply because they believe in Ranger and in the importance of keeping our community’s traditions and history alive.

There are people who work quietly and unselfishly, not because they expect recognition, but because they want to see something good happen for our community. And sometimes, when we see only the finished prod uct, it is easy to overlook everything that went into making it possible.

It is also easy to crit- icize something we did not personally organize, something we did not spend months preparing for, or something we did not have to solve when things did not go according to plan. However, constructive suggestions are valuable. We should always be willing to listen, learn and improve. I hope we can also remember to extend compassion and understanding to those who are willing to step forward and do the work. We may not always agree. We may not always do things perfectly. But when people are willing to give Before we criticize first recognize what it of themselves for the good of others, that deserves our appreciation, our respect and, perhaps most of all, a little grace. those who are willing to serve, perhaps we should takes to be a volunteer - a VOLUNTEER will give up evenings, weekends and personal time, often without thanks or recognition, simply because someone has to be willing to do it.

Our community needs both understanding and participation. If someone sees a way something can be improved, I hope they will consider not only pointing it out, but also asking “How can I help?” That is how communities become stronger.

Roaring Ranger Days in its 43rd year, 2nd year with the RHPS and the Night-Time Lighted Christmas Parade, 36th year this December, are the only two yearly events we publicly host our volunteer services for the Ranger Community. nancially supported by the City of Ranger and The Quarter Store.

When our community lost a volunteer, non-prof- These two events are fi it organization in 2025,

the Ranger Citizens Task organization ends, the Force, it was a dark spot for volunteerism in Ranger. RCTF sponsored several programs; food assistance to children in the RISD, sponsored a yearly clean-up project for our community, as well as the Roaring Ranger Days event for several years.

When one volunteer work does not necessarily end. The needs of a community remain. The work continues because special individuals volunteer to provide those needs to their community. They do it because they care about Ranger. The car about our children, our families, our history and our community.

The awards presented are more than pieces of paper or tokens of appreciation. They are a small way of saying Thank you fo showing up, thank you for participating, contributing and helping make Roaring Ranger Days a historic celebration for our community.

******* RHPS Directors: President-Clinton Eaton, Vice-President Justin Koerner, Secretary-Ella Everidge, Treasurer-Donna Thackerson and Director- Steve Bunker.

To the left: RipFest Parade Grand Marshal Bette Armstrong, prominent year-long promoter of “Old Rip”, poses for a photo with a rain? Or do they prefer more arid conditions? That might be a question for Bette Armstrong. ( More photos page 2 ... )

Crisis Center. (ECT Staff Photo)

Eastland County got some much needed rain, but this week we’re back to mostly skies! The week clear and sunny starts off nice and mild, with highs in the low 80s. Temperatures will slowly warm up a little more each day, with Sunday bringing our warmest day of the get outside and enjoy the we’re expecting more of the same, although we could see a small chance cooler fall weather! As we look ahead to next week, week at 88 degrees. This looks like a great week to of rain. I’ll be keeping my eye on those rain chances!

“Fentanyl continues to threaten lives and families across Texas, and we cannot let the danger fade from public awareness,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “We have the conversation going, a responsibility to keep educate our children and communities about the risks and make sure Texans understand just how dangerous this drug can be. Every conversation, every warning and every effort to share the facts can make a difference. By working together and staying vigilant, we can help prevent more fentanyl-related tragedies and save lives.”

To help increase awareness throughout October, DPS will share a series of social media videos geared at educating Texans about the dangers of fentanyl and directing them to available resources through the One Pill Kills (OPK) campaign. Governor Abbott launched One Pill Kills in 2022 as a way to educate Texans on how to prevent, recognize and reverse fentanyl poisonings.

DPS would also like to remind Texans about its Safety Education team which offers specialized programming to schools, churches, community groups and other organizations that would like to learn more about the statewide OPK campaign and the dangers of fentanyl. This presentation can be tailored for a variety of audiences and age groups and is available free of charge. To learn more, contact a Safety Education team member in your area, here.

More About Fentanyl Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl has become widespread, often mixed with other drugs such as heroin, cocaine or counterfeit prescription pills. Since the launch of Operation Lone Star in 2021, DPS has seized more than 966,083,350 lethal doses of fentanyl – that’s more than enough to kill every man, woman and child in America.

Copeland, Carl Lee & Hedrick, Treva Wilson Espinoza, Esau Perez & Young, Misty Dawn Hernandez, Taber Alonso Felix & Spindler, Giana Rose Hollis, Brody Gaige & May, Makayla Celeste King III, Joe Howard & Rouse, Amber Nicole McCleskey, Vincent Robert & Leppert-Bentley, Katelynn Laine Nilson, Brandon Matthew & Owens, Lexi Claire Reid, Garrett Tayler & Manning, Sara Lindsey Robertson, Jackson Layne & Nelms, Mackenzie Elyse Sharp , Wayne Jonathan & Wilson, Ashley Marie

Eastland County Clerk Eastland County Court

Araguz, Rene Jaime, Driving While Intoxicated BAC >=0.15 Arteaga, Roberto, Speeding 10% or More Above Posted Speed Artho, Ella Elizabeth, Speeding 10% or More Above Posted Speed Baker, Len Lee, III, Criminal Trespass- Habitation or Shelter Barker, James Lee, Possession of Marijuana, 2 ounces or less Beggs, Nicky Renay, Possession of a Controlled Substance PG 3, less than 28 grams Bejarano, Victor, Speeding 10% or More Above Posted Speed Blanco Fonseca, Marco Antonio, No/Expired CMV Inspection Certification/Annual DOT

Brandstetter, Marvin Lee, Theft of Property, $100 or more but less than $750 Cazares, Gladys, Speeding Over Limit; Disregard Stop Sign Chairez, Fabian Dominique, Possession of Marijuana, 2 ounces or less (To Be Continued ...)

We will be showing a movie “Remember the Alamo Don’t Sharia my Texas”.

Bette also gifts each Seibert Singer annually for their participation singing in all Old Rip ceremonies.

Bette has visited every county school promoting Old Rip and loves building young people up and their con-Eastland and the home of “Old Rip” and supports the promotion and protection of the Texas State Reptile. When you see Bette around Eastland in her Old Rip hat be sure to say hello Eastland Legend.

Cost by Donation.. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!

You-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffet. Join us on **Saturday, October

The improvements to the pool, staff and procedures have us all anticipating what’s to come next year.

See you then.

9:00 AM–4:00 PM — VENDORS, VENDORS, VENDORS!

We’re filling downtown with 100+ food, craft, boutique, retail and specialty vendors along Lamar Street and Commerce Street in front of the courthouse. Come shop, browse and find something you didn’t know you needed!

9:00 AM–3:00 PM — Bryan’s Old Rip Car Show Classic cars, cool rides and plenty to admire! Bring the family and check out the cars throughout the day.

10:00 AM — Old Rip Parade Head to Main Street for the annual Old Rip Parade! There’s still time to register your float, ride, or group.

KIDS STREET & FAMILY FUN The kids will have their own place to play with inflatables and a dunking booth on Commerce Street next to Texan Title. Look for jesters on the streets performing juggling acts and making balloon animals. And don’t miss the horse-drawn wagon rides in the parking lot just south of the Food Truck Court!

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 11:30 AM–2:00 PM — Dance & Cheerleader Performances Enjoy performances from local dance and cheer groups on the south side of the courthouse.

11:30 AM–4:00 PM — The Cognitos & Robbie and the Boomers Head to the US Rental Stage, located between the Food Truck Court and the car show, for live music throughout the afternoon.

FOOD TRUCK COURT Come hungry! The Food Truck Court will be packed with food trucks serving up something for just about every appetite.

10:00 AM–4:00 PM — Rip’s Respite Step inside the Lyric for wine, beer and live entertainment in a relaxed setting away from the hustle and bustle of the festival.

10:00 AM–2:30 PM — Old Rip’s Art Competition Stop by the Lyric to see this year’s creative entries and vote for your favorite! Awards will be announced at 3:00 PM.

10:00 AM–9:00 PM — RIPTOBERFEST at Bear Creek Tap House Step across Main Street into Bear Creek Tap House for a special Oktoberfestinspired menu featuring bratwurst, sauerkraut, warm giant pretzels and Oktoberfest beer! They’ll also be serving their

With more than 100 vendors, a parade, car show, kids’ activities, live performances, food trucks, wine and plenty more, there’s something happening all day long!

The Friendship Meal will be this coming Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

The supper in Eastland takes place the first

Tuesday of every month, it is free to everyone. It’s a home-cooked meal, and anyone from any anywhere is invited for food and fellowship. We encourage families and individuals to attend.

The menu for October…Spaghetti with meatballs, vegetables, garlic bread, salad & dessert. Washed down with tea donated by Dairy Queen in Cisco and then our drawing for gift baskets put together by Wild Flower Florist in Cisco. Join us from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Community Hall at the corner of Lamar and Valley.

The meal is a food ministry project, run by the parishioners of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

So, bring yourself, friends, or strangers. We know our guests come for the cooking, but they stay for the socializing and basket drawing. The only requirement is an appetite.

2 weeks later, the Friendship Meal is in Cisco on Tuesday, October 20th, 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Same menu. The meal will be at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Hall, located on the corner of West 11th and Avenue F, you can’t miss it!

Eastland Friendship Meal

If you have any questions, please call Pete Loftin at 254-595-2303.