Hill County approves one-year ban on data centers

Hill County, Texas, commissioners have enacted a one-year moratorium on new data center construction within its unincorporated areas. The decision, a first of its kind in Texas according to the Texas Tribune, was approved following a split 4-4 vote among commissioners, with the county judge casting the tie-breaking vote to pause development. The move comes amidst growing concerns from local residents and landowners about rapid growth and the potential strain on infrastructure.

Homeowners expressed worries about losing their rural way of life, fearing that increased development would bring "the city to the country." One unnamed data center developer addressed some of these concerns, stating that his company would generate its own electricity and not significantly increase electricity bills, nor use excessive water beyond the equivalent of five households.

During the one-year pause, Hill County plans to conduct comprehensive studies on the long-term effects of data centers, focusing on traffic, environmental impact, and emergency response capabilities. Commissioners retain the option to grant waivers for specific projects if they determine there would be no adverse effects on public health, safety, and roadways.