Lamar advances 18-month pause on new data-center applications
The council’s unanimous first-reading vote would pause city review and approval of applications for new data centers and material expansions; the ordinance needs a second reading to pass.
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The Lamar City Council unanimously approved on first reading an ordinance that would pause city review and approval of applications for new data centers and material expansions within city limits. The 18-month pause would begin only after the ordinance takes effect, the council’s Nov. 9 meeting shows.
The ordinance defines a data center as a facility primarily used to house or operate digital-data equipment with an electricity demand of at least one megawatt. It would halt city review and approval of related applications and authorizations, including development plans, rezoning requests, building permits and utility-service commitments.
The council plans to consider the ordinance on second reading at its next meeting. If finally approved, it would take effect 30 days after publication.