Gulf County passes one-year moratorium on AI data centers

News Clip0:25WMBB News 13·Gulf County, FL·7/28/2026

Gulf County Commissioners have passed a one-year moratorium on AI data centers, following concerns raised by residents. The temporary ban aims to allow commissioners to better understand the potential impacts of these facilities. The measure passed with a four-to-one vote.

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Gov: Gulf County Commissioners

Gulf County Commissioners have enacted a one-year moratorium on AI data centers, following the lead of other municipalities in the Florida Panhandle. Commissioner Phil McCroan initiated the motion, citing resident concerns, and was supported by Commissioner Randy Pridgeon.

The temporary ban aims to provide commissioners with time to understand the potential impacts of AI data center development. The measure passed with a four-to-one vote, with Commissioner Jack Husband casting the sole dissenting vote.