Commissioners debate forming Chapter 391 planning commission focused on data centers; vote deferred pending bylaws and cost analysis

Commissioner Holt proposed forming a Chapter 3‑91 subregional planning commission with the City of Weatherford limited to data centers, arguing it would require state agencies to coordinate with the new commission and provide the county more leverage in hearings and information‑gathering. Holt said the commission would begin with Weatherford and Parker County and would have five voting members (two county commissioners, two Weatherford council members and one citizen at large), with no taxing authority or funding unless the body sought it later.

The proposal prompted lengthy legal and policy questions from other commissioners. Counsel and staff advised that if the new entity received public funding it would require governor approval, but that an unfunded commission could be formed without that step. Commissioners raised concerns about overlapping roles with existing Councils of Governments, the ability to limit the entity to data centers in bylaws, and the practical effect on compelling private companies or state agencies to appear. After hearing public comment—including a precinct chair who said the commission would give residents "a little bit more power"—the mover withdrew the motion and asked county counsel and staff to draft bylaws and cost estimates so the item can be agendized and voted on at a June 30 special meeting.