Fort Worth city leaders revealed Thursday the roster of community advocates, academics and industry experts who will serve on the newly created Data Center & Infrastructure Commission. The commission’s charge is to advise the city on how best to regulate the growing number of data center facilities that consume large amounts of power and water.
Commission leadership and members
Texas Christian University professor Michael Slattery, director of the Institute for Environmental Studies, will chair the group. Slattery was tapped by city officials to lead the effort and to select members who bring a range of perspectives.
Slattery told the Fort Worth Report that the selection process focused on qualifications, seeking candidates who are informed, thoughtful and able to raise legitimate concerns. He added that while the data‑center debate carries political undertones, the commission will stay focused on evidence‑based recommendations.
Community representation
The commission includes five community representatives—Erbe, Sharma, Fuller, Jackson and Elisher—chosen by council members for their knowledge of Fort Worth’s development policies and regulations. Additional seats represent economic development, data‑center operators, environmental advocacy, electricity retailers, and the Tarrant Regional Water District.
Scope of work
Over the coming weeks the commission will evaluate how data centers impact electricity usage, water resources, economic development and local quality‑of‑life issues such as setback distances, noise and lighting. The group will meet weekly through October, gathering scientific data and peer‑reviewed research to inform its findings.
Professors from TCU, the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of North Texas have agreed to support the commission’s research, ensuring that recommendations are grounded in peer‑reviewed evidence.
Timeline
The advisory panel will convene its first meeting on Friday under Slattery’s direction. A comprehensive report with recommendations is slated for presentation to the city council during the November 3 work session.
City officials hope the commission’s work will lead to regulations that protect neighborhoods—especially historically underserved or industrial areas—while allowing responsible data‑center development that supports the local economy.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
