‘It’s laced with politics’: Fort Worth data center advisory group takes shape
Fort Worth has established an 11-member Data Center & Infrastructure Commission to help the city adopt new development standards and address related issues like power and water usage. Led by TCU professor Mike Slattery, the commission will deliver a report to the city by November 3, ahead of a potential public hearing on a data center moratorium. This initiative addresses the political significance of data centers in the city.
The Fort Worth City Council and Mayor Mattie Parker are slated to receive a briefing on data centers by November 3 from a newly formed commission, preceding a potential public hearing on a data center moratorium. This initiative underscores the escalating political significance of data center development within the city.
Proposed by City Council member Jeanette Martinez and led by Mike Slattery, director of TCU’s Institute of Environmental Studies, the 11-member "Fort Worth Data Center & Infrastructure Commission" will advise the city on new standards for data center development. Comprising academics, industry experts, vocal residents, and a representative from data center developer QTS, the commission is tasked with researching power, water usage, land use, neighborhood impacts, and economic development, with its work commencing September 4.
Slattery acknowledged the intense public and political scrutiny facing the committee, emphasizing his intent to approach the issues from a