The Williamson County Regional Planning Commission placed a data center zoning discussion on its Thursday, Nov. 12, agenda at the Williamson County Administrative Complex.

The meeting, listed in the commission's agenda packet, was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Item 40 on the agenda called for a "Discussion Related to Zoning Framework for Data Centers." Chairman McCoy noted in the packet that the item was a discussion only, with no action to be taken.

Aaron V. Holmes, director of the Williamson County Planning Department, prepared materials outlining the county's current rules. Data centers are permitted in the Heavy Industrial zoning district and require a Special Use Permit in the Light Industrial district, according to the packet. The county does not have a zoning district or regulations tailored specifically to data centers.

Staff materials presented four options for the commission to consider:

  • Keep the current zoning regulations with no changes.
  • Create a new zoning district specifically for data centers.
  • Amend the existing Heavy Industrial district to include specific data center standards.
  • Develop design guidelines or standards for data centers that would apply across all districts where they are permitted.

The packet materials flagged potential community concerns including traffic, noise, water usage and visual impact. They also referenced the economic benefits of data centers and the need to balance those benefits against potential effects on surrounding areas.

Commissioner McElroy, according to the packet, was expected to request a more detailed staff report examining how other communities have addressed data center impacts. Chairman McCoy's materials suggested the commission could continue the discussion at its January 2027 meeting and consider holding a public hearing to gather community input.

Michael Matteson, community development director, and Kristi Ransom, county attorney, were listed as reviewers on the agenda item. Residents interested in the data center zoning discussion can watch for the January 2027 Planning Commission meeting agenda on the county's website.