City Council moves forward with data center regulations, second hearing scheduled

The San Angelo City Council has unanimously voted 7-0 to move forward with land use regulations specifically for data centers, scheduling a second hearing for May 19. The decision follows a Tuesday morning meeting at the McNease Convention Center where the Council heard from Planning Commission members and the public. Data center planners presented a comprehensive plan covering logistics, water usage, and noise. Mayor Tom Thompson noted the significant time invested by the Planning Commission to establish "guardrails and safety systems." Initially, council members and the majority of the public expressed concerns, particularly regarding water usage and noise levels, prompting requests for revisions. Specifically, the council pushed for a reduction in the decibel limit at the property line from 60dB to 55dB. Water usage emerged as the primary concern, with Mayor Thompson indicating that water regulations would be addressed in a separate ordinance due to their critical importance. The upcoming meeting on May 19 will feature a second reading on existing topics and a first reading on new water regulations, with data center planners returning with updated proposals.