Part 6/9:
The ramifications of Stargate extend beyond technology. Locally, Abilene is set to see significant economic changes, from job creation to increased tax revenue—though some deals involve waiving 85% of property tax revenues in an effort to attract such a large investment. Local authorities express optimism that the benefits of creating high-tech jobs will outweigh the drawbacks of lost tax revenue.
Residents' insights vary from enthusiastic support for job creation to concern over the environmental implications. Some express genuine hope that Project Stargate might help alleviate local unemployment issues caused by reliance on industries such as oil and gas.