Planning and Zoning advises rezoning for data center

The Wichita Falls Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval for rezoning land for a proposed nine-building data center off Airport Drive. The rezoning from residential to light industrial is a critical step for the project. City council previously tabled the discussion in February, and is now considering adding specific ordinances to address concerns. These potential restrictions aim to ensure noise levels remain acceptable and to prohibit cryptocurrency mining at the facility. During public comment, residents like Charlie Peters expressed fears that the project could stunt local economic growth, citing existing businesses and construction nearby. Gregory Hall raised significant concerns about electricity usage, referencing past power outages where ERCOT struggled to meet demand, and called for definitive answers on the data center's power requirements. Fabian Medellin, Director of Development Services, explained that staff will now prepare the agenda item for presentation to the city council. If the council approves the ordinance for the Planned Unit Development (PUD), it will grant the development team the necessary clearance to proceed with designs.