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Prosper commission rejects data center rezoning amid public opposition

The Prosper Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to deny a rezoning request for a controversial data center project, citing insufficient studies and lack of community benefit.

Xenia Yoder

September 2, 20262 min read

Civic Decision - illustration, Jake Team LLC

The Prosper Planning and Zoning Commission has unanimously rejected a proposal to rezone a 37-acre site near FM 1385 and Parvin Road for a proposed data center. The vote also denied an amendment to the future land use plan, which would have shifted the property from medium-density residential and retail to business park designation.

The decision followed hours of public testimony during a Tuesday night meeting, with numerous residents expressing opposition to the project. Some Aubrey residents attended, warning that the facility’s impacts could extend beyond Prosper’s borders.

Commissioners cited several reasons for their opposition. Vice Chair Josh Carson noted that while tax revenue is a factor, it should not be the sole consideration for development. He emphasized that the proposal lacked a clear net benefit to the community.

Commissioner Josh Hamilton raised concerns about electricity consumption, environmental effects, and potential noise pollution. He pointed out that data centers are not listed as a permitted use in the town’s current future land use plan. Hamilton stated that if such a use is desired, the mayor and council must first revisit the land use plan.

Commissioner Deborah Daniel acknowledged the general need for data centers but argued that Prosper is not the appropriate location due to strain on local energy and water resources. Commission Chair Damon Jackson added that the commission lacked sufficient studies or expert testimony from either side of the issue.

Commissioner Matt Furay clarified that he does not oppose all development on the site, which currently has base agricultural zoning. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring any future use is appropriate given the existing land use plan. He moved to deny the request, and the commission voted accordingly.

The project, known as Project T State, had drawn widespread public backlash prior to the meeting. The commission’s denial leaves the site’s current zoning and land use designations in place.

Source: WFAA.

Sources

https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/local/collin-county/prosper-planning-zoning-commission-denies-controversial-data-center-rezoning-request/287-e449e7f8-4e36-4cf2-b478-9ae99ceda139

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Xenia Yoder

Xenia Yoder writes about community life, schools, public safety, and local events in Prosper.

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