Alvin, Brazoria Co. leaders propose resolutions to oppose data centers
Local leaders in Alvin and Brazoria County, Texas, are proposing resolutions to formally oppose data center developments due to concerns over infrastructure, power, and water resources. Alvin City Council is voting on a resolution while Brazoria County commissioners will discuss taking a stance, though officials admit their powers are limited by state law. Residents and officials express worry about the impact on their small rural towns.
Growing opposition to data centers is evident across southeast Texas, notably in Alvin and Brazoria County. Alvin City Council member Scott Salter voiced concerns about the rapid development of these facilities, arguing that the city, which lacks zoning regulations, is not a suitable location. Salter highlighted potential strain on local infrastructure, specifically noting that a proposed data center's initial electrical load of 200 megawatts would nearly double the daily power consumption of the entire Alvin area, which is just under 200 megawatts.
Brazoria County Judge Matt Sylvesta echoed this opposition, stating that while he is against data centers in the county, local leaders are constrained by Texas law, which grants counties few tools to prevent such developments. Experts confirm that developers often target areas with minimal regulations and permitting hurdles. Judge Sylvesta plans to introduce a resolution for commissioners to discuss data centers at their next meeting and take a stance, acknowledging that such a move would be largely symbolic.
Sylvesta mentioned an existing small data center in the county that has already generated noise complaints from neighbors and raised issues concerning water and power load. Despite the proposed resolutions by both the Alvin City Council and Brazoria County leaders, it is understood that any actions taken by the county would likely not impact the operational ability of data centers in Brazoria, underscoring the limitations of local authority under current state laws.