Lakeland begins drafting one-year moratorium for large-scale data centers
The City of Lakeland, Florida, is drafting a one-year moratorium on large data center projects, including specific language from Senate Bill 484. This action stems from public concern over the proposed "Project Swan" data center and aims to give the city time to study infrastructure impacts related to electricity and water usage before establishing long-term regulations. The ordinance is scheduled for public hearings and a vote in July.
The City of Lakeland, Florida, is moving forward with plans to implement a temporary one-year moratorium on large-scale data center developments. During a recent city commission meeting, city leaders directed City Attorney Palmer Davis to prepare an ordinance for public hearings and a vote scheduled for July 6 and July 20. The decision follows weeks of public controversy surrounding "Project Swan," a proposed data center near Old Tampa Highway, which prompted calls for the city to establish clearer regulations.
Commissioner Guy LaLonde emphasized that the moratorium would allow the city to gather crucial information regarding the rapidly evolving industry. Polk County Republican Party Chairman Sam Romain supported the temporary pause, suggesting it be used to evaluate significant infrastructure concerns such as electricity demand, water usage, wastewater capacity, and potential upgrade costs. Commissioners Ashley Troutman and Chad McLeod also acknowledged the complexity of data center development and the need for better understanding.
If approved, the moratorium would halt new large data center projects for 12 months, enabling Lakeland to develop comprehensive policies for data center location and operation. The discussions highlighted the city's intent to understand and regulate future data center growth rather than enact a permanent prohibition.