Weather

67°F4:54 AM

Politics

1 read

San Marcos Sets Precedent with Texas' First Data Center Ban

KVIA•Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 5:38 PM•Texas Tribune

Government building representing politics and policy news

Want the full story?

Read the complete article at KVIA

AI Summary

San Marcos has officially prohibited data centers within its city limits, becoming the first city in Texas to take such action. The City Council's 4-3 vote on June 16 aims to protect local water and energy resources amid growing concerns over the environmental impact of data centers. Although there are currently no proposed data centers in San Marcos, two projects are being considered in nearby Hays County. This ban is part of a broader trend as municipalities seek to assert their local control against state regulations that limit their authority. The move is likely to face legal challenges from state officials who argue it contradicts recent legislation aimed at restricting local moratoriums on development.

Key Details: • City Council voted 4-3 on June 16, 2026, to ban data centers. • No current data center projects are proposed within San Marcos. • Nearby Hays County has seen proposals for at least two data centers. • State officials, including Sen. Paul Bettencourt, plan to challenge the ban. • Residents previously expressed concerns over water usage from potential developments.

environment data-centers zoning local-control san-marcos

People & Organizations

San MarcosFort WorthHays CountyPaul BettencourtAmanda RodriguezLorenzo GonzalezAlyssa GarzaDan DiorioData Center Coalition

Related Articles

Ukrainian Defense Minister Ousted Amid Protests Despite Military Gains

Mykhaylo Fedorov has been removed from his position as Ukraine's Defense Minister, triggering public protests and internal military discord. His dismissal comes despite recent military successes against Russia and follows tensions with military leadership, particularly with General Oleksandr Syrskyi. Fedorov, who served for only six months, was popular among troops for improving salaries and troop rotations. His removal marks a significant shift, as he is the fifth defense minister since the large-scale Russian invasion began in 2022. Protests erupted in Kyiv, with demonstrators expressing concerns about the impact of his ousting on Ukraine's defense capabilities, especially as the country faces ongoing missile attacks from Russia.

Trump Dismisses Newly Appointed Seattle Prosecutor Hours After Swearing In

President Donald Trump terminated the newly appointed U.S. attorney for Seattle, Roger Rogoff, less than an hour after he was sworn in by federal judges. This dismissal underscores ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary regarding the appointment of federal prosecutors. Rogoff, a seasoned attorney with extensive experience, indicated he may pursue legal action against his firing. The incident raises questions about the legality of the administration's tactics in appointing and removing U.S. attorneys, especially after a federal appeals court expressed skepticism about such maneuvers. Senator Patty Murray criticized the administration for undermining the judicial process and installing politically aligned individuals in key positions.

Trump Administration Targets NY Times Journalists Over Air Force One Reporting

The Trump administration has issued subpoenas to four journalists from The New York Times following their report on potential risks associated with President Trump's newly operational Air Force One, which was gifted from Qatar. This legal action raises concerns about press freedom and the implications for investigative journalism. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the administration and media outlets, particularly regarding national security matters. The Times is now seeking to quash these subpoenas, arguing that they threaten the integrity of journalistic practices.

Legal Battle: New York Times Challenges Subpoenas for Reporter Testimony

The New York Times has initiated legal proceedings against subpoenas demanding testimony from its reporters regarding anonymous sources. The subpoenas, issued shortly after the Times published a critical story about President Trump's claims on Air Force One, are described as 'abusive and improper' by the newspaper's legal team. The Justice Department clarified that reporters are not targets, but the investigation into leaks has raised concerns about press freedoms. The Times argues that these actions threaten journalistic independence and First Amendment rights, with support from various media advocacy groups. The case highlights ongoing tensions between the government and the press in the context of national security and accountability.