Citrus County Commission considers pause on AI data center applications
The Citrus County Commission is considering a temporary moratorium on AI data center applications due to strong resident opposition. Concerns include the facilities' significant power and water demands, and their potential impact on the power grid, aquifers, and property values.
Citrus County residents are vocally opposing the development of AI data centers in their area, citing concerns over the substantial power and water consumption these facilities require. Residents believe AI data centers are unsuitable for their rural community, expressing fears about potential negative impacts on the local power grid, underground aquifers, and property values.
In response to this community backlash, the Citrus County Commission is deliberating a temporary moratorium, potentially for up to one year, on new AI data center applications. County Commissioner Diana Finnegan highlighted that residents have overwhelmed their inboxes with concerns, particularly regarding proposed zoning changes in Holder Industrial Park that would accommodate these data centers.
The proposed moratorium aims to provide the commission with sufficient time to research the issue thoroughly, engage with the community, and develop protective language for its citizens. This comes after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill granting local governments final authority over planning and zoning for data centers, while also stipulating that companies must bear the costs for their own water and electricity infrastructure, thereby preventing these expenses from burdening residents.
The commissioners have yet to reach the moratorium agenda item for a vote, but if it does not pass, alternative planning and zoning guidelines have been drafted.