Westlake votes not to renew Keller police contract amid data center dispute
Westlake Town Council voted not to renew its police services contract with Keller, a decision linked to an inter-municipal dispute over a proposed 88-acre Circle T Data Center development in Westlake. Keller residents oppose the project due to its proximity to their homes, leading to contentious meetings and a lawsuit. A temporary restraining order was issued in connection with the lawsuit.
Westlake Town Council unanimously voted against renewing its two-decade-long police services agreement with the City of Keller, a decision heavily influenced by an ongoing inter-municipal disagreement concerning a proposed data center. The current five-year contract with the Keller Police Department is set to conclude on October 1, 2028, but the council's vote indicates a severance of this long-standing relationship prior to its expiration.
The contentious Circle T Data Center development, which plans for eight buildings across 88 acres in southern Westlake, has faced significant backlash from Keller residents. These residents argue that the proposed site is considerably closer to their homes than to any in Westlake, demanding fair consideration from Westlake officials. The dispute has escalated to include heated public meetings, threats of litigation, and a lawsuit which resulted in the issuance of a temporary restraining order.
Westlake Mayor Kim Greaves confirmed the town's gratitude for Keller's past police services but emphasized Westlake's focus on thoughtfully developing a new public safety partnership that serves its residents' best interests. Conversely, Keller Mayor Ross McMullin expressed disappointment over the decision, hoping for a resolution to the political rhetoric surrounding the data center. Keller Police Chief Brad Fortune assured continued professional service to Westlake residents until the contract's end. Westlake Council member T.J. Duane suggested a partnership with the Roanoke Police Department, citing its proximity and cost-effectiveness as key factors.