A moratorium on data centers in San Antonio isn't a realistic policy response
A guest columnist argues against a proposed moratorium on data center development in San Antonio, Texas. While acknowledging concerns about water, electricity, and environmental impact, the author suggests focusing on thoughtful, science-based standards instead of a blanket ban. The article also criticizes the call for data centers to be built with union labor.
Michelle Seward Davis, president of Associated Builders and Contractors of South Texas, penned an op-ed in the San Antonio Express-News, arguing that a blanket moratorium on data center development in San Antonio is not a realistic policy response. She acknowledges concerns raised by City Council Member Ric Galvan and environmental groups regarding data centers' impact on water supply, the electric grid, and quality of life.
Davis, representing over 215 member companies in the construction industry, emphasizes that data centers are critical infrastructure supporting various sectors from healthcare to AI. She suggests that rather than a moratorium, San Antonio should focus on developing clear, science-based standards to protect natural resources while allowing responsible projects to proceed. She warns against jeopardizing San Antonio's competitive advantage in attracting investment.
The columnist also criticizes state Sen. José Menéndez's call for data centers to be built with union labor, arguing that government should not favor one labor model and that such a policy would exclude the majority of the state's construction workforce from well-paying jobs. She concludes that Texas should reject blanket bans and embrace balanced, locally driven solutions to continue leading in innovation and economic growth.