An hours-long meeting stretched into the night on Wednesday, with a packed house full of people wanting to make public comment.
An effort by city leadership and residents formed quickly after Westlake recently announced an approved data center on the Westlake-Keller border.
Much of the discussion between leaders was held behind closed doors in an executive session; however, Keller Mayor Ross McMullin addressed the crowd before the executive session, stating that Keller has a right to protect its community.
“I’ll be adding an agenda item for council to consider and authorize formal legal action should Westlake choose to move forward at a future council meeting, because those residents deserve nothing less,” said McMullin
This statement was met with a standing ovation from Council members and community members.
The meeting was packed with people hoping to speak, resulting in dozens being moved into an overflow room.
“Like many of my neighbors, I’m deeply concerned about the potential health and environmental impacts that this facility could produce, including noise, air and light pollution,” said one commenter.
Many who spoke voiced concern about their community and quality of life.
“No one wants to live so close to an AI data center that it will affect their peace, their sleep, their health, and especially the health and development of our children,” said another person speaking.
Residents shared research and ideas, and city leadership took notes.
The city also circulated a letter sent to Westlake leaders, claiming that by approving the project, they aren’t in compliance with city ordinance.
Westlake is set to meet next week to discuss the development agreement for the already approved data center.