Zephyrhills City Council votes unanimously for 1 year moratorium on large-scale data centers

The Zephyrhills City Council in Florida voted unanimously on Monday to enact a one-year moratorium on large-scale data centers. City Council President Steven Spina stated the pause is intended to provide leaders with sufficient time to gather information essential for making informed decisions regarding land use and property rights, as well as to ensure the city can legally defend itself if challenged.

Residents actively voiced their concerns during the public comment period, highlighting potential negative impacts such as excessive water usage, increased electricity costs, noise pollution, light glare, decreased property values, and harm to wildlife. Resident Regina Xavier expressed satisfaction with the moratorium but hopes for a permanent ban, while Shelly Baksh praised city leaders for proactively protecting the community, especially given existing drought conditions limiting lawn watering to once a week.

While Zephyrhills has taken definitive action, a similar proposed moratorium in neighboring Pasco County is still pending a vote by county commissioners on July 14.