D9 Councilwoman Warns Against Proposed Data Center Restrictions

Published on October 29, 2026

She believes restrictions could stifle investment and economic growth.

SAN ANTONIO (October 29, 2026) — Councilwoman Misty Spears expressed opposition to proposed restrictions on data center development, warning that additional regulatory barriers could discourage private investment, limit economic opportunities and undermine San Antonio’s competitiveness in the technology sector.

“San Antonio should be positioning itself for the future. Adding costly restrictions and uncertainty sends a message that investment and innovation are unwelcome,” Spears said. “These companies have choices. If we make it unnecessarily difficult to build here, they will take their investment, construction jobs and tax revenue elsewhere.”

The District 9 Councilwoman emphasized her belief that data centers provide essential infrastructure, supporting businesses, hospitals, financial institutions, military operations and cybersecurity. She believes their development also creates opportunities for local contractors, skilled trades and service providers while expanding the city’s commercial tax base.

“Technology is part of nearly everything we do. We rely on it to run businesses, deliver health care, protect sensitive information and support our military,” the District 9 Councilwoman said. “We need the infrastructure behind those services, and San Antonio should benefit from that investment.”

She also challenged blanket claims that data centers waste water, pointing to advances in cooling technology.

“Closed-loop cooling systems recirculate water, substantially reducing the need for additional water. Claims that data centers are inherently wasteful overlook those conservation efforts,” the District 9 Councilwoman said. “We should evaluate facilities based on their actual water use and technology.”

She supports working with data center operators and utilities to protect resources, address neighborhood concerns and ensure companies fund the infrastructure their projects require.

“These companies can be strong partners to our city through infrastructure investment, conservation and economic development. We should work with them to address specific concerns and encourage responsible growth,” Spears said. “San Antonio cannot build a stronger economy by putting unnecessary obstacles in front of industries that will help shape its future. We need clear, practical rules that support progress, attract investment and keep our city competitive.”