Planning commission opts to expand city scrutiny of data center projects
Granbury's Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved a citizen-written zoning ordinance amendment that would require special-use permits and 1,000-foot setbacks for data centers. This proposal, stricter than a previous city council decision, now advances to the Granbury City Council for a vote in August. Residents spoke in favor of the amendment, expressing concerns about an incoming data center project.
The city of Granbury's Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously endorsed a citizen-written zoning ordinance amendment on July 13, significantly expanding scrutiny over data center projects. The proposed amendment would mandate special-use permits for data centers and their supporting infrastructure, along with a 1,000-foot setback from all neighboring property lines.
This decision marks a reversal from the City Council's April approval, which allowed data centers to operate by right in industrial zones, provided they met supplemental noise and light standards. The commission rejected a less restrictive alternative prepared by city staff, opting instead for the citizen-authored version, which now proceeds to the Granbury City Council for discussion in August. Community Development Director Cody Nolen praised the citizen-written draft for its quality.
Nikki Sopchak, a former planner for Dallas engineering consultants, identified herself as the author of the proposed amendment. She emphasized the need for a more robust submission process due to the "mass, scale and impact on infrastructure" of data centers. Residents, including Hood County resident Sonya Byrd, expressed fear regarding the "Project Patriot data center at Knox Ranch," urging the commission to approve the protective measures, which they did to public applause.