Fort Worth lays out plan to regulate data centers
Fort Worth city leaders are outlining a plan to regulate data center development, including considering a temporary moratorium, forming a Data Center and Infrastructure Commission, and requiring proof of state approval for grid connection. These actions come after the Zoning Commission voted against initial zoning amendments, prompting calls for more comprehensive regulation.
Fort Worth city leaders are developing a comprehensive plan to regulate the rapid expansion of data centers, responding to concerns about their impact on residents and city resources. Assistant City Manager Jesica McEachern presented three key actions: initiating the legal process for a moratorium, establishing a Data Center and Infrastructure Commission, and mandating proof of state approval for electric grid connections for data center developers.
This follows a previous decision by the Fort Worth Zoning Commission, which voted against amending existing zoning rules for data centers. The proposed moratorium, however, must adhere to Chapter 212 of the Texas Local Government Code, requiring the city to provide written findings demonstrating why current regulations are insufficient to prevent harm to public health, safety, or welfare. The process would involve public hearings and is limited to an initial 90-day period, with a possible 90-day extension, and cannot affect projects already in progress or applications filed before its enactment.
Additionally, the city proposes creating an 11-member Data Center and Infrastructure Commission, to be led by Dr. Mike Slattery of Texas Christian University. This commission would study the impacts of data centers on electricity, water, land use, neighborhood effects, and economic factors, presenting its recommendations to the City Council by November 3. Public comments emphasized the need for greater resident representation on the commission.
A separate proposed ordinance would require data center developers to submit proof from either the Public Utility Commission of Texas or the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) confirming grid interconnection approval. This requirement, drafted following a directive from Governor Greg Abbott, would apply at various stages of the development process. The timeline suggests public hearings on the moratorium would follow the commission's report, with a potential council vote in February for an initial 90-day moratorium.