In a recent city council meeting in Katy, Texas, officials deliberated on a contentious special use permit application for a battery energy storage system (BESS) proposed by Ochoa Energy at 27051 Highway Boulevard. The council had previously delayed the decision, prompting a public hearing on September 23, 2024, where significant community opposition was voiced.

Community Development Director Ian Clowes outlined the special use permit (SUP) process, emphasizing that the council's vote would determine whether to approve the application, with further reviews required for site plans and building permits if approved. The council was reminded that the application had already received a recommendation for approval from the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission.

However, during the meeting, Council Member Smith moved to deny the establishment of the special use permit, citing overwhelming public opposition from residents and business owners. Concerns were raised regarding the facility's proximity to Katy High School and residential areas, with several council members echoing the sentiment that the project did not align with the city’s vision for a safe and family-oriented community.

Council Member Harris highlighted the need for a thorough review of industrial codes in light of the public's concerns, while Council Member Court expressed skepticism about the safety and regulatory oversight of the battery storage industry. She referenced a recent incident in San Diego involving a battery facility fire, which led to evacuations and raised alarms about the risks associated with such projects.

Despite the Planning and Zoning Commission's earlier recommendation, the council ultimately voted to deny the special use permit, reflecting the strong community sentiment against the project. The decision underscores the council's commitment to prioritizing resident safety and quality of life in Katy, as they plan to further evaluate regulations surrounding battery energy storage systems in the future.