Written by Bailey McCain for the NavCo Chronicle
The Freestone County Commissioners Court meeting held January 7, 2026 was one where public comment truly took center stage, as residents voiced strong concerns about large scale development projects proposed for the county, specifically data centers and solar farms.
At least five members of the public addressed the Court, with the majority of speakers focusing on the impact these projects could have on nearby homeowners. Two women who live directly across from a planned solar farm spoke emotionally and candidly about how the project has already affected their lives.
One resident shared that she lost the sale of her home after a potential buyer learned of the solar farm planned just across the street. She questioned how property values would be affected for homeowners living next to industrial scale solar development and whether those losses would be reflected in future property tax valuations. Another resident echoed those concerns, asking how it would be fair for homeowners to pay the same or higher taxes if their property value declines due to proximity to the project.
Both women also raised serious concerns about home insurance. They explained that their insurance providers have warned they may be dropped because companies are unwilling to take on the risk of insuring homes located next to large solar facilities. Insurers reportedly cited concerns about potential incidents at the solar farm and the possibility of damage extending onto neighboring properties. The residents stated that securing alternative coverage would be financially overwhelming, if it could be obtained at all, leaving them unable to afford either the increased cost or the risk of being uninsured.
Questions were also raised about long term living conditions. Residents expressed concern about whether the solar farm could increase heat around their homes and whether that could lead to higher energy bills during already hot Texas summers. Several speakers shared that they felt under informed and frustrated by the lack of timely responses from developers when seeking answers to these concerns.
Throughout public comment, commissioners listened attentively and asked questions with the best interest of the community in mind. While commissioners are limited under the Texas Open Meetings Act in what they can discuss or act on if items are not specifically posted on the agenda, the overall tone of the meeting reflected that these concerns were genuinely heard and taken seriously.
County Commissioner Will McSwane offered to provide contact information and phone numbers for developers and representatives involved in the proposed projects to members of the public. He stated that he would share any contact details he had so residents could directly reach out, ask questions, and seek answers that they felt had not been addressed in a timely manner.
Beyond public comment, the Court addressed routine county business, including approval of minutes from prior meetings, budget transfers and amendments, payroll, payment of bills, departmental reports, and consideration of various appointments and contracts. Items related to road use agreements, a burn ban, and abatement projects were also included on the agenda.
As Freestone County continues to see growing interest from large scale energy and technology developers, this meeting highlighted the balance county leaders face between economic development and protecting the quality of life for residents most directly affected. For many in attendance, the meeting was less about policy and more about being heard, and that message was clearly acknowledged by the Court.
