North Texas counties push for more local control over data centers

Somervell County, Texas, is spearheading a regional movement among North Texas counties to increase local control over data center development. County commissioners recently voted to send a resolution to state leaders in Austin, urging a temporary halt on new data center applications and advocating for greater county authority to implement zoning regulations, mirroring powers typically held by cities. This initiative is largely driven by local residents, such as Demetra Conrad and Chris Paulsen, and supported by State Representative Helen Kerwin (R-Glen Rose), who voice concerns over excessive water and electricity consumption by these facilities, as well as the impact of heavy industry on rural communities. The resolution follows Somervell County's earlier approval of tax breaks for an Amazon data center. With an estimated 400 data center projects planned across Texas this year, up from 40 two years ago, the demand for more oversight is growing. Google's energy development manager, Liz Schwab, who oversees facilities in Ellis County (including Red Oak and Midlothian) and has more planned statewide, counters that data centers are crucial for daily online activities and provide significant economic benefits through construction, maintenance jobs, and an expanded tax base for rural areas. A public meeting on data centers is scheduled for Ellis County, and the broader debate is expected to continue into the next legislative session in January 2027.