City Council accepts data center petition
The Lubbock City Council accepted a citizen-led petition calling for an 18-month moratorium on data centers with high water and energy use. A public hearing is scheduled for September 8th, after which the Council will vote on the proposed ordinance. Councilman Tim Collins expressed concerns that an 18-month moratorium could violate state law, though he supports other lawful restrictions.
The Lubbock City Council has formally accepted a verified citizen petition requesting a temporary 18-month halt on data center developments within city limits that exhibit high water and energy consumption. The action by the Council was described as a formality after the City Secretary confirmed enough valid signatures were collected for the citizen-led effort to enact an ordinance.
The petition also mandates a public hearing before the Council votes on the ordinance. Councilman Tim Collins voiced concerns that an 18-month moratorium might be unlawful under state law due to its length. However, he indicated support from the City Council for other lawful proposals that would protect the city and restrict data centers.
A public hearing on the petition is set for September 8th at 2:00 PM in the Council Chambers, after which the City Council will have 30 days to either adopt or reject the moratorium. The deadline to put the issue on the November ballot has already passed.