Fort Worth and Tarrant County residents gathered at City Hall on June 30 to review proposed regulations for data center development. The open house featured representatives from multiple city departments, the Texas Public Utility Commission, and the Tarrant Regional Water District at various stations to address inquiries regarding water consumption, pollution controls, and economic incentives.
The event followed a June 2 presentation to the City Council that outlined the initial regulatory changes. Proposed measures include a prohibition on cryptocurrency mining facilities and mandates for noise barriers to mitigate impacts on adjacent neighborhoods. Approximately 300 individuals attended the session, with reactions ranging from appreciation for the dialogue to deep skepticism about the enforceability of the rules.
Alexander Montalvo, a Fort Worth activist, characterized the proposals as inadequate. He argued that the current suggestions fail to resolve core community concerns regarding electricity usage, water allocation, zoning, and noise. Montalvo stated that the city is prioritizing corporate interests over leadership and called for a moratorium on new data center construction.
Other attendees raised different concerns. Helen Ratliff, an Arlington resident and nurse, questioned who would fund the necessary infrastructure upgrades and absorb the associated costs. She also voiced worries about potential health effects on children, noting that her daughter is considering moving away from Crowley to avoid nearby data center projects.
Assistant City Manager Jessica McEachern noted that the regulations remain unfinalized and that feedback from surveys and in-person discussions will inform the final draft. The City Council is scheduled to vote on the rules during its August 11 meeting. Prior to that, the Fort Worth zoning commission will review the land-use provisions at its July 8 meeting at 1 p.m.
