County ‘review’ period to pause data centers, high-water-use developments
The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a resolution establishing a review period until December 31 for large industrial developments, including data centers, that have significant water demands. This measure aims to address drought conditions, declining aquifer levels, and infrastructure concerns. A new High Water Demand Development Review Board will evaluate proposed projects and recommend actions.
The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously passed a resolution establishing a review period for large industrial developments with high water demands, including data centers, until December 31. The decision was driven by severe drought conditions, decreasing aquifer levels, and concerns about straining public infrastructure and emergency services. This measure defers consideration of discretionary approvals for such projects, effectively pausing new developments while the county conducts further studies and explores potential legislative changes.
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra confirmed that the resolution had undergone legal review to ensure its comfort among officials. Commissioner Debbie Gonzales Ingalsbe expressed strong opposition to data centers, citing incompatibility with Hays County's character and widespread community concern, particularly from neighbors close to proposed developments. She also emphasized the court's commitment to not offering incentives to data center companies, challenging claims that developers would proceed without them.
The resolution explicitly avoids creating new zoning authority, focusing instead on existing county powers. It outlines thresholds for projects requiring review, such as using over 25,000 gallons of water daily or having an electrical load of five megawatts or more. A new Hays County High Water Demand Development Review Board, including Commissioners Morgan Hammer and Ingalsbe, will be formed to evaluate proposed projects' impacts on water availability, infrastructure, and emergency services, making recommendations to the Commissioners Court.