Hillsboro considering new rules on data centers

The Hillsboro Planning and Zoning Commission is set to consider creating a special zoning category to establish limits on future data center projects in the city. This initiative comes in response to significant community concern and opposition regarding a proposed data center development. During a Hillsborough Community Forum in late April, numerous residents voiced their objections to the planned project. City leaders acknowledge that no final decisions have been made, but tonight's meeting is expected to be crucial in shaping future data center policies in Hillsboro. The proposed development involves Provident Data Centers, which is seeking to purchase 300 acres of land north of Hillsboro, currently owned by the Hillsboro Economic Development Corporation. Provident Data Centers, which operates nine data centers across the U.S., including four in Texas, has indicated it currently has no agreements for additional land. City and county leaders are committed to coordinating on related policies as discussions progress, and residents will have multiple opportunities to provide input during the meeting.