Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick visited Sherman on Wednesday as part of his ongoing bus tour seeking a fourth term in office. The visit included a stop at Global Wafers, where he discussed state efforts to address industrial impacts on local residents.
During the facility tour, Patrick highlighted a study conducted by the University of Texas regarding vibrations from nearby quarry operations. He expressed hope that the quarry operators would abandon their current plans following the findings. Patrick described the initiative as establishing new precedents for how such industrial issues are handled.
The lieutenant governor also outlined several policy priorities for the upcoming legislative session. He stated his intention to raise the homestead property tax exemption cap to $200,000, a move he said would reduce costs for homeowners. Additionally, Patrick announced plans to eliminate school property taxes entirely.
Addressing concerns about funding gaps for rural districts like Sherman, Patrick noted that the state would cover the financial difference. He cited an allocation of $51 billion for this purpose and mentioned that school superintendents had approved the approach because the state would assume the financial responsibility.
Patrick also addressed the expansion of data centers in Texas, proposing a ten-month pause on new projects. He linked this halt to concerns about strain on the state power grid. The lieutenant governor indicated that future development would depend on operators adhering to guidelines set by Governor Greg Abbott and improving their engagement with local communities.
