Calhoun County commissioner speaks on AI data center rumors
Calhoun County commissioners are addressing public confusion regarding AI data center projects. Commissioner Chad Bailey clarified that the county is not considering data centers and intends to permanently ban them through comprehensive planning and land development regulations. This comes as neighboring Bay, Jackson, and Franklin counties have already enacted moratoriums or bans on such facilities.
Talks about AI data centers are continuing across the Florida Panhandle, with several counties taking action. Bay County has approved a six-month moratorium on data center development, while Jackson and Franklin Counties have agreed to a one-year ban.
However, in Calhoun County, misleading social media posts have sparked confusion about local leaders' intentions. NewsChannel 7's Valentina Gaspari reported that Calhoun County District Five Commissioner Chad Bailey is setting the record straight. Bailey stated unequivocally that the county is not looking into data centers and does not want one in Calhoun County.
Commissioners held their first public meeting on a possible 12-month moratorium on Tuesday but decided to delay a vote for 30 days to tighten the ordinance. Commissioner Bailey emphasized that they are seeking a way to permanently ban data centers through their comprehensive plan and land development regulations. He highlighted Calhoun County's rural character, emphasizing that it is not the right fit for such facilities and that commissioners want to protect the local environment and way of life. Bailey affirmed the board's collective will to pursue a permanent ban without hindering future growth.