Donna Deegan opposes AI data centers in Jacksonville, for now
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan is skeptical about allowing AI data centers, citing concerns over electricity and water consumption, despite the city not currently considering a moratorium. This position aligns with actions in other Florida counties that have enacted bans or moratoriums, and follows new state legislation granting local governments more regulatory power over data centers.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan has expressed significant skepticism regarding the development of AI data centers within the city. During a radio interview with WJCT, Mayor Deegan stated that she would need assurances that such facilities would not strain the local electric grid or deplete critical natural resources like water, emphasizing that the community must be convinced of their benefits before any approvals.
Her stance comes amidst a growing trend across Florida, where several counties have already taken decisive action. Wakulla and Walton counties have implemented permanent bans on data centers, while Clay, Nassau, Citrus, Hernando, Lake, and Pasco counties have enacted one-year moratoriums. Other counties are also actively considering similar restrictions on new facilities due to concerns over resource drain, noise pollution, and environmental impacts.
The state government has also weighed in, with the recent passage of SB 484. This legislation grants local governments enhanced authority to establish land development regulations for data centers. Key provisions of SB 484 include requiring data centers to cover their own utility and infrastructure costs, rather than passing them to consumers, and potentially mandating the use of reclaimed water when feasible. Florida Commerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly highlighted the "catches" involved when companies propose large economic development projects like data centers.
The issue has become a prominent topic in the 2026 election cycle. Republican gubernatorial front-runner Byron Donalds, supported by the AI industry, argues that technological advancements are reducing data centers' resource demands and has questioned the motives behind domestic opposition, suggesting foreign propaganda. Conversely, candidates like James Fishback and Paul Renner advocate for statewide bans, illustrating the deep divisions within Florida's political landscape on data center development.