Polk County father suing Fort Meade for approved AI data center has concerns about living next door
Residents of Fort Meade, Florida, have filed a lawsuit against the city over its unanimous approval of a hyperscale AI data center, alleging negligence and a failure to follow state-mandated review processes. One plaintiff, Michael Bennett, who lives near the 1,300-acre site, is concerned about the potential noise and low-frequency vibrations from the facility impacting his autistic son and property value. Bennett is also circulating a petition to recall city commissioners.
Fort Meade residents have initiated a lawsuit against the city following its unanimous approval of a hyperscale AI data center, despite significant community opposition. The plaintiffs accuse the city of negligence and failing to adhere to a state-mandated review process, seeking a higher court's ruling on the city commission's decision.
Among the plaintiffs is local businessman Michael Bennett, whose home in Polk County, just outside Fort Meade's city limits, is located approximately half a mile from the proposed 1,300-acre data center site. Bennett's primary concerns include the potential for noise pollution from hundreds of generators and low-frequency vibrations, which he fears will negatively affect his oldest son, who is on the autism spectrum and sensitive to sound. He also anticipates a decrease in his property's value due to these environmental impacts. Bennett hired an acoustical engineer to establish a baseline for noise, air, and light pollution on his property.
In addition to the lawsuit, Bennett is spearheading a petition to recall all eligible city commissioners. The city of Fort Meade officials did not provide a comment by the time of publication.