After the Zoning Commission Vote, What’s Next for Fort Worth Data Centers?

The conversation over data center development in Fort Worth is entering a pivotal stage, and community advocates say resident input remains critical.

According to Krista Erbe of 2871 Community Coalition, the Fort Worth Zoning Commission voted 7-4 on July 8 against forwarding the city’s proposed data center regulations to the City Council.

Erbe called the outcome encouraging, saying the commission recognized the proposal needed more research, stronger policies, and greater community input. The commission also allowed every resident who signed up to speak, extending public comment to more than two hours.

The proposed ordinance now moves to the Fort Worth City Council with a recommendation for denial. Because of that recommendation, approval would require a three-fourths supermajority, meaning at least 9 of the 11 council members must vote in favor.

Five council members, Carlos Flores, Mia Hall, Chris Nettles, Elizabeth Beck, and Jeanette Martinez, have publicly endorsed pursuing a temporary moratorium on new data center applications while stronger regulations are developed. Council Member Michael Crain has also said he is open to a short moratorium if it gives the city time to improve the ordinance.

Erbe emphasized that a moratorium would also require support from at least nine council members. She urged residents to contact their council representatives in support of both a temporary moratorium and stronger regulations, noting that one should not replace the other.

Residents can learn more, email the Fort Worth City Council, and find tips for submitting public comments at 2871Community.org.

Fort Worth is also accepting public feedback on the proposed data center regulations through July 15. Residents can complete the city’s online survey at Fort Worth public feedback survey.

The Fort Worth City Council is currently scheduled to consider the matter on August 11.