Majority of Fort Worth council members call for data center moratorium
A majority of Fort Worth City Council members plan to propose a temporary moratorium on data center developments in August to allow more time to review and propose regulations. This initiative follows the zoning commission's denial of a proposed ordinance regulating data center locations and is backed by residents concerned about resource impacts and quality of life. The city aims to balance economic opportunity with protecting residents and natural resources.
Fort Worth, TX
A majority of Fort Worth City Council members announced their intention to propose a temporary moratorium on data center developments, aiming to introduce the measure at the council's August meeting after their summer break. Council members Elizabeth Beck, Carlos Flores, Mia Hall, Jeanette Martinez, and Chris Nettles issued a news release, with Council member Michael Crain later confirming his support. This move follows the Fort Worth Zoning Commission's 7-4 vote to deny a proposed ordinance regulating where supercomputer hubs could be built in the city.
The council members emphasized that a moratorium would be temporary, allowing additional time for research and stakeholder engagement to develop permanent regulations. They seek to balance economic opportunity from data centers with the protection of residents, neighborhoods, natural resources, and critical infrastructure, citing state law that limits moratoriums to 90 days with one 90-day extension. Council member Crain expressed concern that inaction could lead to state intervention and limited local control.
Residents have actively voiced opposition, forming groups like DFW Communities Over Data Centers and 2871 Community Coalition, and demanding a halt to developments due to concerns over water, electricity, and quality of life. Proposed projects by companies such as Black Mountain (a $10 billion data center on 450 acres) and Edged Data Centers (a facility on 186 acres in Veale Ranch) have faced delays, with council members previously tabling votes and requesting more information. Council member Beck acknowledged the risk of litigation but stated it's a necessary risk for residents' protection.