Taylor official apologizes for ‘untimely’ online post about data center debate
A Taylor city official apologized for prematurely releasing information online about a data center zoning decision during a public meeting. The City Council is now considering changes to its Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code to regulate data centers, after a resident-led petition for zoning changes was deemed not applicable for a popular vote. Public comments on the proposed amendments are open, with the council addressing the matter in September.
Taylor City Manager Brian LaBorde issued an apology for an "untimely online announcement" regarding data center zoning, released during a City Council meeting where residents were still present to speak. The announcement stated that a resident-led petition to change zoning through a popular vote for data center development was prohibited by state law and would instead be considered by the council in September.
Residents, including those from the advocacy group HALT Taylor Data Centers, expressed anger after learning the decision was posted online before the meeting concluded. While the petition, which gathered over 1,400 certified signatures, cannot be adopted via the initiative process or placed on the Nov. 3 ballot, the City of Taylor plans to amend its Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code to address data centers. Proposed changes include new requirements for environmental protection, noise mitigation, air quality, and water conservation. Public comments on these draft regulations are accepted through July, with the council scheduled to take up the matter in September. LaBorde encouraged residents to participate in the process, which includes opportunities for written feedback and public hearings.