CGG/Viridien Advanced Technology Project Explained

When a new project enters a community, especially one described with a term like “data center,” it’s understandable that questions—and concerns—follow. Over the past several days, many residents have reached out, shared posts, and asked for clarity. City officials recognize the level of public interest and concerns, and want to provide a clear, factual explanation of the project, the company involved, and the extensive public process. This project didn’t appear overnight. It has taken place over more than three years, moving step by step through the same public boards, approvals, and legal processes used for any significant development in our community. The timeline, approvals, and negotiations were conducted through the usual public boards, legal contracts, and standard economic development processes.

From the beginning, City leaders and staff approached this project with one guiding principle: protect Brenham’s residents, infrastructure, and resources. “We understand the concern that comes when people hear the term 'data center” said Atwood Kenjura, Mayor of Brenham. “But I want to be very clear: this project was not rushed, not hidden, and not done behind closed doors. Every step followed the same transparent procedures we use for all major economic development projects.”

Correcting the Misinformation

One of the most significant sources of confusion has been the repeated description of the project as “a data center.” The company involved, Viridien (formerly CGG), is a technology company that uses powerful computers to solve complex problems across industries such as energy, engineering, and scientific research.

While computers and data are part of what they do, this project is not a public data storage warehouse, a cloud storage site, or related to cryptocurrency or Bitcoin mining. The facility is built for Viridien’s own research and technology work, not for storing personal data or operating digital currency.

City staff worked carefully and thoroughly to protect residents and City infrastructure. The facility is being built for a specific purpose and must meet strict safety and regulatory requirements at the local, state, and federal levels. This includes detailed reviews for fire safety, electrical systems, and environmental protection, including water and electricity.

It’s also important for residents to know:

• As with any development in Brenham, the City will provide standard water service for the property. However, the facility has been designed to use significantly less water than many traditional data centers. Unlike facilities that rely on water-consumptive cooling systems, this operation uses advanced technology that greatly reduces overall water demand.
• It will not be connected to the City’s electric utility. Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative will provide electric service to the facility.

Nothing is allowed to move forward unless it meets these standards, and City staff have gone above and beyond to make sure the project is reviewed responsibly and safely. “It’s important that we separate fact from assumption,” Mayor Kenjura said. “The term ‘data center’ is being used broadly, but that label does not accurately describe the full scope or purpose of this company’s operations.” He continued, “This facility will not use the City’s electric utility services. They fall under Bluebonnet Electric.”

 The Full Story and Timeline

The City and the Brenham Community Development Corporation (BCDC) began discussions with Viridien in April 2022. From that point forward, the project moved through a series of publicly authorized actions, negotiations, and contract milestones.

2022 — Initial Discussion

April 2022

Communication between Viridien and the City of Brenham/BCDC began regarding the land purchase at 332/389 (the Gurrech Tract).

2023 — Further Discussion & Negotiation

June 2023

Viridien opted to change and purchase the current location on Longwood Drive.

 July 6, 2023

BCDC authorized its President to begin negotiations.

August 8, 2023

BCDC reaffirmed authorization to negotiate.

September 28, 2023

An option agreement was drafted for a Longwood Drive location.

November 2, 2023

BCDC authorized the sale of property with conditions:

• Non-refundable option consideration 
• Construction timeframe extended from 18 to 36 months

 2024 — Contract Development & Due Diligence

April 2, 2024

BCDC updated on restrictive covenant (deed restriction) discussions.

August 12, 2024

Option consideration officially received.

November 2024

The company requested additional acreage; a new option agreement was created.

2025 — Final Agreements & Infrastructure Coordination

February 19, 2025

Fully executed purchase contract received.

June 24, 2025

Tour of the company’s Houston facility with Bluebonnet Electric.

July 8, 2025

The sale of land officially closed.

 Post-Sale to Date

August–September 2025

Coordination with project managers regarding fire protection and infrastructure.

October–November 2025

Incentive discussions, financial analysis, and state-level eligibility review.

November 2025

Viridien was informed that they did not qualify for certain state incentives.

January 2026

City Council agenda item with a possible vote designating the Viridien property as a reinvestment zone (January 8, 2026; 1:00 PM)

Following the land sale, coordination continued on infrastructure, fire protection, and incentive discussions, including meetings with engineering consultants and state officials regarding eligibility for economic-development programs.

City officials recognize that residents may be surprised to learn about the project now. “Economic development projects don’t always attract attention until people hear a label that sparks concern,” Teresa Rosales, Economic Development Director, said. “That doesn’t mean the process was hidden—it means the public conversation is now catching up, and we welcome that conversation. All negotiations followed established public-sector processes.” She continued, “From July 2023 through July 2025, the project went through multiple publicly authorized actions, negotiations, and contract milestones—each one requiring approvals, documentation, and oversight. These actions included property negotiations, option agreements, site evaluations, and infrastructure coordination, all handled through established public-sector processes.”

What’s next?

The January 8, 2026, City Council agenda item is simply the first step in a standard process used for many economic development projects. It allows the City to hold a public hearing and consider designating the Viridien property as a reinvestment zone. This action does not approve a tax phase-in agreement. If approved, it only allows the City Council to consider a possible tax phase-in agreement at a later meeting on January 22. Under City policy, this is called a tax phase-in, not a tax abatement, meaning taxes are gradually phased in over time rather than eliminated. This agenda item is not a vote on whether the facility is coming to Brenham. The land sale has already occurred following a long, public process. The City wants to ensure there is no additional confusion about the purpose of the agenda item.  “Transparency doesn’t stop once questions arise—it starts again,” Mayor Kenjura said. “Our responsibility is to give citizens facts, context, and clarity so they can form opinions based on information, not fear or false information.”

Representatives from Viridien and Bluebonnet Electric will attend the City Council Meeting at 1:00 PM at City Hall in the City Council Chambers.