Taylor city manager apologizes for timing of data center petition announcement
The Taylor City Manager apologized for the timing of an announcement that a citizen-led petition to restrict new data center development was deemed ineligible. The petition sought to halt new data centers until specific zoning rules were adopted. The city plans to update its land development code and is accepting public comments on proposed data center regulations, with an ordinance expected in September.
Taylor City Manager Brian LaBorde issued an apology for the timing of an online announcement that a citizen-led petition, aimed at restricting new data center development, could not proceed. The announcement was made as a packed crowd of residents gathered for a city council meeting, intending to speak on the issue. The petition, organized by the HALT Taylor Data Centers coalition, garnered approximately 1,400 signatures with the goal of prohibiting new data centers under current zoning until Taylor enacted specific regulations for digital infrastructure.
City officials, citing a legal review by the city's legal team and outside counsel, ruled the measure ineligible for adoption through the initiative process or for placement on the ballot under Texas law. LaBorde expressed the city's deep regret for the poorly timed announcement, stating that the intention was to present the legal findings during the meeting and explain how the petition would inform proposed regulations.
LaBorde acknowledged the significant effort residents invested in the petition and agreed that the city's current land development code and zoning were inadequate for regulating data centers. He highlighted the city council's ongoing focus on updating its comprehensive plan and land development code to address this issue.
Despite limitations imposed by state law regarding development moratoriums and regulations, LaBorde committed to addressing residents' concerns more effectively. The city is currently accepting public comments on proposed data center regulations throughout July, with an ordinance anticipated for city council consideration in September. A community meeting is also planned to further discuss the issue and explain the legal constraints faced by Texas cities in regulating data centers.