City of Lakeland will discuss a moratorium on a future AI data center
Lakeland City commissioners will discuss a proposed 12-month moratorium on AI data centers following concerns from residents about a 600,000 square foot facility known as Project Swan. The pause is intended to allow time to study the potential community impacts of such centers. Public hearings are scheduled for July 6th and 21st.
Lakeland City commissioners are set to discuss a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers. This recommendation comes after numerous residents voiced concerns last week regarding "Project Swan," a proposed 600,000-square-foot facility slated for construction near Old Tampa Highway and Wilkinson Road.
City leaders believe a one-year pause is necessary to thoroughly study the potential impacts of data centers on the community. Commissioner Stephanie Madden emphasized that the moratorium is not intended to show prejudice against any development but rather to ensure a fair assessment that considers both developers' concerns and the interests of Lakeland citizens.
The proposed moratorium will be discussed at the commissioners' meeting this morning at 9. Residents will have further opportunities to provide input at public hearings scheduled for July 6th and July 21st. Additionally, Pasco County is expected to consider a similar ordinance tomorrow.