Cooke County Commissioners Seek Greater Control Over Data Center Development in Texas
Cooke County Commissioners Court approved a resolution urging Texas state officials to grant counties more regulatory authority over data center developments. The county seeks greater input on project planning and safeguards due to concerns about the strain on local resources like water and electricity. The resolution aims to ensure transparency and coordination for future data center projects.
Cooke County Commissioners Court in Texas has approved a resolution calling on the state to enact measures allowing counties greater control over data center developments. The move follows similar actions by other rural counties, including Wise and Johnson, reflecting a growing concern among local governments regarding the impact of these facilities.
County Judge John Roane highlighted the current lack of input from counties, stating there's "no requirement at this time to come to the court and explain why or where" data centers are being built. Commissioner Gary Hollowell emphasized the rapid influx of data centers, describing them as "huge consumers of water and energy" with counties currently having "little to no input."
The resolution requests that the Governor and Texas Legislature explore policy options to enhance transparency, improve coordination with local entities, and help rural communities prepare for the strain on resources. Key concerns include the reliability of the electric grid, water availability, impacts on agricultural and wildlife lands, and long-term costs for taxpayers.
While not opposed to data centers for economic development, Cooke County insists on "adequate safeguards to protect county resources." The resolution specifically encourages statewide standards prioritizing sustainable practices, such as closed-loop cooling technologies and the use of non-potable water, to mitigate the impact of data centers on Texas's water supply, especially amid recurring drought conditions.