Hernando residents want ban on data centers

The Hernando County Commission held a land-use meeting on June 2, where residents voiced overwhelming support for a permanent ban on data centers, though commissioners are considering a 365-day moratorium. County Attorney Jon Jouben drafted the moratorium ordinance at the request of Commissioner John Allocco, who expressed concerns about data center growth nationwide, particularly regarding power and water usage, and low-frequency hums.

Commissioners acknowledged residents' desire to prevent data center development in Hernando County but debated the legality and scope of a permanent ban. County Attorney Jouben warned against a "taking" of property owners' rights if a moratorium extends beyond the time needed for a study. Commissioner Ryan Amsler suggested a 24-month moratorium, while Commissioner Brian Hawkins cautioned against unintended consequences for other IT equipment if the definition of "data center" is too broad.

Residents raised various objections, citing environmental impacts like water contamination, light and air pollution, strain on the electrical grid, and potential health issues from low-frequency sounds. Some also voiced national security concerns regarding hardware sourcing and described data centers as "surveillance centers." Development Services Director Omar DePablo confirmed no data center plans are currently under consideration for the county. The commission made the ordinance a top priority, aiming for its return by the next land-use meeting on July 7, with a focus on comprehensive planning and zoning to regulate data centers as directed by a state law taking effect July 1.