County backs pause on data centers; Temporary moratorium gives county time to gather information

Citrus County Commissioners in Florida voted unanimously to pursue a temporary moratorium on data center approvals, instructing staff to prepare a draft ordinance for a formal vote at their next meeting. The decision followed a contentious public meeting where numerous residents, many wearing "No Data Centers" shirts, voiced strong environmental concerns regarding potential data center developments. Commission Chair Diana Finegan cited rapidly evolving AI technology and increasing public concern as reasons for the temporary pause, which would last no more than 12 months and halt building permits, development orders, and rezonings related to data centers. Finegan emphasized the need for caution to avoid leaving Citrus County vulnerable without adequate state and federal guidance. The proposed moratorium comes after the Deltona Corporation initiated requests for comprehensive plan amendments and zoning changes for over 800 acres at the Holder Industrial Park, aiming to allow heavy industrial uses, including data centers. Residents, including Del Wray of Citrus Springs and Tonie Toney of Hernando, urged commissioners to reject such projects, with Toney advocating for a permanent ban. Commissioner Holly Davis warned that a permanent ban could expose the county to legal challenges, instead favoring a shorter moratorium to craft strict regulations.