Okee-One data center in Okeechobee declared DOA by state; County officials scrap proposal to allow other energy hogs

The Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners has rejected a proposal to rezone agricultural land for Special Technology Opportunity Centers, a move that would have facilitated the construction of large data centers in the area. This decision came after significant public opposition citing excessive electricity and water usage. The crowd reportedly erupted in applause following the board's unanimous vote to remove the proposed Comprehensive Plan amendments. In related news, County Commissioner Terry Burroughs announced that the previously planned Okee-One data center project, slated for 200 acres in Okeechobee County, has been declared "dead on arrival" by the state. Indian River State College had intended to use Okee-One as a classroom laboratory and had secured a $1.5 million state grant, which they are now being asked to return. These developments occur amidst mounting opposition to data centers across rural Florida, which are attractive to AI developers but raise concerns about infrastructure strain and utility costs for residents. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also indicated his intent to sign a measure imposing restrictions on data center construction, although a specific bill, Senate Bill 484, was noted to include non-disclosure provisions that could limit transparency from tech companies.