Taylor Planning Commission tables data center proposal for 90 days after pushback
The Taylor Planning Commission has tabled a proposed data center development, Project Mustang, for 90 days following significant pushback from local residents. The commission will review the project details and make a recommendation to the City Council. Residents express frustration over the pace of data center development and feel their concerns are not being heard.
The Taylor Planning Commission voted 6-2 to table a proposed 665-acre data center development, known as Project Mustang, for 90 days. The decision came after residents packed Taylor City Hall, expressing strong opposition to the project and a growing number of data centers in the area.
Residents, including Melanie Goss, voiced concerns about the safety and desirability of data centers, stating, "It's scary. It's dangerous, and it's not what we want." Opponents had previously attempted to put a petition against data centers on the November ballot, backed by 1,400 signatures, but the City Council ruled it ineligible.
John Stokes, Vice President of Big Watt, a company involved in the project, stated that Project Mustang would include two data center buildings, an on-site power facility, and other infrastructure, asserting it complies with city water, noise, and lighting codes, as well as new state data center requirements. Stokes highlighted that their project would not connect to the main grid due to its dedicated on-site power.
Commission member Rick Seline indicated that the delay was due to ambiguities in the project presentation and a desire to address public concerns. Project officials hope the site will be annexed into Taylor, but developers could proceed even without annexation. The planning and zoning commission is expected to review the project and make a recommendation to the City Council after 90 days.