City Council Advances Data Center Regulations; 2nd Hearing Set

SAN ANGELO, TX — The San Angelo City Council voted unanimously 7-0 Tuesday to advance new land-use regulations for data centers. 

The changes would require future data centers in the city’s light manufacturing and heavy manufacturing zones to go through a conditional use permit process instead of being allowed “by right” under a previous interpretation of city rules. 

Planning and Development Services Director Aaron Vannoy told the council the new rules give the city stronger oversight.

“This is an opportunity for our city to regulate data centers,” Vannoy said. “Without something in the zoning ordinance, we have no way to regulate the land use.”

Council members spent considerable time discussing noise standards. The proposal originally set the limit at 60 decibels at the property line, but several members supported tightening it to 55 decibels. 

Mayor Tom Thompson said water usage is the top concern for many residents and will be handled in a separate utility ordinance.

“Water shouldn’t actually fall under a general zoning restriction,” Thompson said. “It should have its own ordinance that comes through. Water is the most important resource we have.”

The council asked staff to return with some numerical changes and refinements for the second reading on May 19. That meeting will also include a first reading on the new water regulations. 

To watch the full discussion from Tuesday’s meeting, click HERE.