Citrus County enacts data center moratorium amid water use concerns
Citrus County commissioners have unanimously approved a 12-month moratorium on new data center applications in unincorporated areas, driven by public concerns over water use, power grid strain, and rural character. The decision came after residents voiced strong opposition to proposed data centers. The county plans to develop stricter local regulations during this period.
The Citrus County Commission voted 5-0 to enact a 12-month moratorium on new data center development in unincorporated Citrus County, following extensive public pushback. Residents filled the commission meeting, expressing concerns that large-scale data centers, particularly those proposed near Holder Industrial Park, could severely strain the county’s water supply, power grid, and negatively impact its rural character. The commission's decision allows them time to develop stricter local regulations.
County Intergovernmental Liaison Alexander Alt presented on the governor's newly signed Senate Bill 484, noting that it largely retains local planning authority over data centers. Alt highlighted safeguards within the legislation related to water use, stating that large-scale data centers proposing to use more than 100,000 gallons of water per day would require public hearings before water management district boards. He also mentioned that earlier provisions for 5-mile radius restrictions from residential areas were removed.
Dozens of residents voiced their concerns, with Pamela Larsen of Dunnellon highlighting the