Fort Worth is the latest Texas city considering how to handle the data center boom as five city council members call for a pause on the projects within city limits. Zoning and development regulations are also being discussed between residents, the council, and commissioners.
Council members Carlos Flores, Mia Hall, Chris Nettles, Elizabeth Beck and Jeanette Martinez called for the Fort Worth moratorium in early July, citing environmental impact, power needs, and noise strains as concerns.
Despite acknowledging the economic importance of data centers, a press release from the members stated that a moratorium would be desired, “so Fort Worth can adopt regulations that thoughtfully balance economic opportunity with the protection of our residents.”
“By taking the time to get this right, we will protect our residents, preserve the character of our neighborhoods, and provide the certainty needed for responsible growth.”
The release also addressed the discussions regarding a zoning and development ordinance that may pave the way for further project implementation in the city.
The initial ordinance proposal was denied by zoning commissioners due to a desire for greater detail, stricter regulations, and more time for review. The commissioners have sent the ordinance to the city council to deliberate on modifications to the proposal.
City officials and residents are exploring possibilities such as increased mandatory distance from residential areas, acoustic barriers, closed-loop cooling systems, and even the complete prohibition of centers dedicated to crypto-mining.
“Our staff recommendation is that we go ahead and enhance our rules and we get some good development practices in place,” said Assistant City Manager Jesica McEachern.
“The industry is hearing the public’s concerns and they themselves are trying to now design their sites to be really good neighbors, to be even better.”
Other local and state officials have begun paying serious attention to data centers.
San Marcos recently became the first Texas city to ban data centers in late June, while Gov. Greg Abbott has called for data centers to “operate in ways that reduce costs for residential electricity customers, do not drain water needed for our communities, and take into consideration the needs of our neighborhoods.”
The Public Utility Commission of Texas is expected to reevaluate how costs are passed onto consumers to ensure Texans are not footing the bill for data centers.
While it is currently unclear exactly what regulations and policies will ultimately be adopted by Fort Worth officials regarding data centers, citizens can contact their local representatives with their concerns. Fort Worth City Council is expected to review proposed zoning rules at a meeting on August 11.
