Local communities debate data center projects
North Texas communities are divided over the rapid growth of data centers. Fort Worth is considering new zoning rules to address concerns about noise, water, and power, while Granbury residents have filed a lawsuit challenging the city's annexation of land for a proposed data center and power plant, citing transparency issues.
The data center boom is creating division in communities across North Texas, as residents raise concerns about the long-term impacts of these massive facilities despite the investment they bring. Janelle Ford reported live from Fort Worth, where leaders are currently weighing rules and regulations for future data centers.
The Fort Worth Zoning Commission is meeting to consider proposed zoning changes. These proposals include banning cryptocurrency mining data centers, requiring noise barriers, and adding new zoning rules to dictate where these facilities can be built, addressing community concerns about noise, water, power, and infrastructure.
Approximately an hour southeast, in Granbury, a proposed data center has sparked a major political conflict. Residents have filed a lawsuit challenging the city's annexation of nearly 2,000 acres, believing that a data center and power plant could be constructed there. They are also advocating for a vote of no confidence in the city manager and city attorney, accusing officials of a lack of transparency regarding the project.
The underlying sentiment in these growing communities is a demand for transparency and clear "guardrails" as development proceeds, regardless of individual opinions on data centers.