Austin is moving to enact a new regulatory framework covering how and where data centers can be built in the city, and block the development of the largest and most resource-intensive facilities.

“We’re looking to have a complete, legally viable means of regulation, prevention and protection," Mayor Kirk Watson said.

The big picture: Today, data centers are generally allowed in Austin's commercial and industrial areas and there are no specific rules in place to control or monitor their development. As data centers have proliferated across Texas, including in Austin, city leaders are seeking ways to oversee any new facilities that may be built locally.

On Aug. 27, City Council unanimously voted to launch a regulatory update that'll revise Austin's zoning rules by limiting the facilities to certain locations; establishing new standards for data center construction; and adding permitting, planning and monitoring requirements.

Alma Esthetics, a medical spa and aesthetics clinic, relocated to a new Northwest Austin space earlier this summer. The business moved to its new location on Anderson Mill Road on June 13 and opened to customers on June 17, according to owner Emily Rocha. 

What they offer: Alma Esthetics offers esthetic treatments including facials, dermaplaning and back facials. Patrons can also receive laser treatments including skin tightening, laser hair removal and photofacial and pigmentation correction. 

Learn more: Alma Esthetics has a monthly membership plan with various levels, starting at $99 per month. The base membership includes one esthetic or laser treatment per month, member pricing on injectables like Botox and filler, discounts on additional services and more.

• 9707 Anderson Mill Road, Ste. 200, Austin

This November, Libertarian Ted Brown, Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico are running to be Texas' next U.S. senator.

The overview: Each state has two U.S. senators serving staggered terms, with Ted Cruz and John Cornyn currently representing Texas. Cornyn ran for reelection but lost his primary race, and the winner of the November election will replace him in January.

Paxton advanced to the general election after beating Cornyn in a primary runoff, while Talarico beat two other contenders in the Democratic primary, Community Impact reported. Brown was selected as the Texas Libertarian Party's candidate during an April nominating convention.

At the polls: Early voting runs from Oct. 19-30 for dozens of statewide and local races. Election Day is Nov. 3.