Palm Beach County zoning leaders back data center moratorium, weigh tougher regulations
Palm Beach County's Zoning Commission unanimously recommended a one-year moratorium on new large-scale data center applications. However, commissioners raised concerns that the proposed definition of "large-scale" (50 megawatts or more) could create loopholes for developers. The recommendation will proceed to further public hearings and then to the Board of County Commissioners for final consideration.
The Palm Beach County Zoning Commission has unanimously recommended a one-year moratorium on new large-scale data center proposals. The decision, made during a public hearing, aims to pause development while county officials draft more comprehensive regulations to address concerns surrounding noise, water consumption, electrical demand, and land-use compatibility.
Despite the unanimous vote for a moratorium, commissioners and members of the public expressed significant concerns about the proposed definition of a "large-scale data center." The current proposal applies to facilities using 50 megawatts or more, a standard derived from Florida law. Commissioners, including Sam Caliendo and Susan Kennedy, argued that this threshold could create loopholes, allowing developers to design projects just below the limit to bypass the temporary restrictions.
Residents like Sue Loiselle and Lisa Johnson urged the commission to ensure the new regulations are robust, specifically advocating for strong groundwater protection and independent studies on environmental impacts. County staff indicated they would revisit the definition and language as permanent rules are developed. The recommendation will now advance to another public hearing in August, with a final consideration by the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners scheduled for September.