Judge prevents Westlake data center vote
A Tarrant County judge issued a temporary order preventing the Town of Westlake from voting on or approving a proposed data center development. The decision follows public opposition to the project, which would be located near a residential neighborhood. The data center company stated it would comply with local ordinances and Governor Abbott's directives.
A Tarrant County judge has issued a temporary injunction, blocking the Town of Westlake from holding a vote or taking any action to approve a proposed data center development agreement. The ruling came amidst ongoing discussions at the Westlake City Council chambers regarding the project, which is planned for a site along Highway 377 near Westport Parkway, directly across from a neighborhood within Keller city limits.
The judicial order followed significant public outcry against the proposed data center. Residents voiced strong opposition during the City Council meeting, with one speaker highlighting the absence of any proponents for the data center in attendance, despite previous claims of no local opposition. The senior vice president for the unnamed company behind the data center was present and spoke at the meeting.
The company representative assured the council that an independent noise study would be conducted upon the project's completion to ensure compliance with town ordinances. Furthermore, the company stated its commitment to adhering to new directives issued by Governor Abbott, acknowledging that an audit process would be time-consuming. The company emphasized that if the project fails to pass the audit, the data center would not be built, but council approval is still required for its progression.