Killeen planning commission denies permit for proposed data center

The Killeen Planning and Zoning Commission recently denied a permit request for a proposed $30 million "computing and energy research annex" by ONMINE, intended for a nearly three-acre vacant property on South Fort Hood Street. Despite city staff recommending approval, the commission voted 4-1 to reject the application. The facility, described by ONMINE executives as a smaller-scale data center, promised zero municipal water usage for cooling and the ability to stabilize the local power grid, including cutting its electrical load instantly during emergencies to benefit Killeen residents. Co-founder Ziyad Elgamal emphasized its role as a "micro nod" for infrastructure upgrades and grid support. However, local residents voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about potential water shortages, air pollution, and noise. Garry Hammons of the adjacent Tabernacle Baptist church specifically highlighted the anticipated low hum from the facility as a disturbance. Planning Commissioner Scedric Ross also questioned the tangible community benefits of the project. One commissioner suggested the denial allows time to observe impacts of similar projects elsewhere before making future decisions.