'I do not want to live near a data center' | Proposed data center in Hutto draws concerns from residents

Residents of Hutto, Texas, are voicing strong opposition to a proposed 40-acre data center project by Zydeco Data Centers. The project, located on Ed Schmidt Boulevard, requires a rezoning request currently under consideration by the Hutto Planning and Zoning Commission. During a recent meeting, numerous homeowners, including Christine Benson, expressed fears about potential increases in traffic, noise, and ambient temperature, which they believe would diminish their quality of life and property values. Zydeco Data Centers' development principal, Wes Gilmer, presented the facility as a "mid-scale" operation designed for minimal community impact, promising quiet operation, low water usage, and limited traffic. Gilmer emphasized the significant economic benefit, estimating over $200 million in new taxable value for the city, which Mayor Mike Snyder stated could bolster essential public services like public safety and road infrastructure. However, some residents, such as Joseph Cortez, contend that the land could be utilized for projects that offer more direct benefits to the community's quality of life, rather than focusing on mitigating the impacts of a data center. City staff noted that the discussion is in its preliminary stages. The Hutto Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to provide its recommendation on April 20, with the final decision resting with the Hutto City Council on May 7.