Westlake data center agreement temporarily blocked by Tarrant County court
A Tarrant County judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Westlake Town Council from approving a development agreement for a proposed data center project. The project, developed by PowerHouse Data Centers near Keller, faces strong opposition from residents and Keller officials due to concerns over natural resources and quality of life. The council has delayed its vote for two weeks pending a judge's decision on a temporary injunction.
The Westlake Town Council unanimously voted to delay its decision on a development agreement for a proposed data center project after a Tarrant County judge issued a temporary restraining order. Judge Kimberly Fitzpatrick of the 342nd State District Court in Fort Worth granted the order, preventing the council from taking action for two weeks on the approximately 88-acre Circle T Data Center, which would be located at the northern edge of Keller.
The project has sparked significant scrutiny from both Westlake and Keller residents, as well as elected officials in Keller. Opponents express concerns that the data center could deplete natural resources and negatively impact their quality of life. Two residents and The Lakes at Marshall Ridge Homeowners Association, representing a neighboring Keller community, requested the restraining order to prevent what they termed "irreparable harm."
Mayor Kim Greaves stated that the council's authority to stop the project was limited because the land is privately owned and designated for "use by right." The proposed development agreement with PowerHouse Data Centers would have established standards for noise, water, power, and infrastructure, and included a $914,000 payment from the developer to Westlake for pump station renovations.
After hearing over two hours of public opposition and consulting with the town attorney, the council tabled the vote. The judge is expected to decide on a temporary injunction after August 26, which could further halt the project. Keller City Council member Greg Will urged Westlake to prioritize cooperation and assured that Keller would explore all legal avenues to address resident concerns.