More data centers headed to San Antonio. City Council will vote on data center regulations
San Antonio City Council is scheduled to vote on two proposals regulating future data centers on Oct. 29. The proposals address zoning setbacks, public comment and council approval, while Councilman Ric Galvan is also advocating for data centers to use recycled water; residents raised concerns about electricity reliability near hospitals.
San Antonio officials are considering two proposals to regulate new data centers as development expands in the city and across Texas. One proposal would automatically permit facilities in designated zoning districts if they are at least 500 feet from homes, schools, daycares, assisted-living facilities and hospitals. The second would require City Council approval and provide an opportunity for public comment before a data center could be approved.
District 6 Councilman Ric Galvan hosted a town hall to gather community feedback and said he supports the second proposal. Residents also questioned the potential effect of data center electricity demand on nearby hospitals and their backup generators. Galvan additionally supports requiring data centers to use recycled water. The City Council is scheduled to vote on both proposals Oct. 29.