Caddo officials debate data center impacts and zoning
Caddo Parish officials are debating the impacts of large data centers, with discussions focusing on the need to update the master plan and zoning regulations. Concerns include the "data heat island effect" and the potential for increased ground temperatures. Commissioner Trackman highlighted the development of a large natural gas power plant, presumably to power these data centers.
During a Caddo Commission meeting, Commissioner Chris Trackman invited Jake Brown, a member of the Parish Planning and Zoning Commission, to present on the impacts of new, large-scale data centers. Brown emphasized the need to update the master plan and ensure fair representation for residents living within a five-mile zone of such developments. He also raised health and environmental concerns, citing a University of Cambridge study from March 2026 titled "The Data Heat Island Effect," which suggests these facilities could increase ground temperatures by up to 16°F.
Commissioners questioned Brown's role in compiling such studies, suggesting they should be directed at state and national figures who influence legislation on data center development. However, the discussion shifted towards local mitigation gains, nuisance codes, and compromises for citizens seeking protection from industries without full zoning. Commissioner Trackman also mentioned a new natural gas power plant complex under development by "Energy" on 300 acres in Latex, which is understood to be twice the size of an existing plant and presumably intended to power the data centers.