Taylor City Council Shuts Down Data Center Ban Petition, Advises Residents Get Involved in Zoning Discussions
The Taylor City Council rejected a citizen-led petition seeking a temporary ban on new data centers, stating that Texas law prohibits zoning changes by popular vote. Instead, city officials encouraged residents to engage in ongoing discussions about amending the city's Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code to regulate digital infrastructure. This decision comes amidst significant local opposition to planned data center projects and broader statewide concerns about their impact on the power grid and water supply.
The Taylor City Council has rejected a citizen-led petition that sought a temporary ban on new data centers in the city, informing a frustrated crowd that the measure could not legally proceed under Texas law. Mayor Pro Tem Kelly Cmerek stated that Texas law does not permit zoning changes through popular vote, although she acknowledged the validity of the residents' concerns. The decision, posted on Facebook shortly after the meeting began, sparked confusion and anger among organizers like Sarah Winters.
Over 1,400 residents had signed the petition, prompted by two data center projects planned for Taylor, one on a site previously designated for a park. Carrie D'Anna of the Halt Taylor Data Center Coalition expressed disappointment with city leadership, noting the community's desire for advocates.
Despite the petition's failure, the city is actively working to amend its Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code to regulate digital infrastructure, including data centers. A city committee is reviewing a draft, and the public can submit comments through July, with a potential ordinance coming before the city council in September for approval.
This local pushback in Taylor mirrors broader concerns across Texas, where data centers are facing bipartisan opposition due to their energy and water demands. Governor Greg Abbott has directed state regulators, including the Public Utility Commission of Texas, to ensure that data centers cover their own infrastructure and utility costs, preventing increased burdens on residential electric bills and limiting development in rural areas.