Santa Rosa County takes next step on a 12-month data center moratorium amid public pressure for a total ban
Santa Rosa County Commissioners held a public hearing for a proposed 12-month moratorium on large-scale data centers. Residents pressed the board for an outright ban, citing concerns about water usage, noise pollution, and potential health effects. Commissioners, guided by county attorneys, are proceeding with the temporary moratorium to allow time for informed decision-making.
Santa Rosa County Commissioners are advancing a proposed ordinance for a 12-month moratorium on large-scale data center developments. During the first of two public hearings, residents, including Cindy Smith from Pace, urged commissioners to bypass the temporary measure and implement an immediate, outright ban, drawing comparisons to neighboring Walton and Escambia counties.
Concerns raised by the public included substantial water usage by data centers, as highlighted by Escambia County resident Pepper Wimer, and potential health issues from water pollution and noise, voiced by Bonnie Stratton. Speakers also cited a legal opinion from Earth Justice lawyers, suggesting the commissioners have the right to impose a total ban.
Commissioner Kerry Smith, who proposed the temporary moratorium, explained that the board's approach is based on advice from county attorneys. County Attorney Tom Dannheisser clarified that the current Land Development Code lacks data center prohibitions and that a temporary moratorium acts as an "emergency injunction," allowing the county to halt applications immediately while formulating a permanent regulatory framework. He also assured that the board could take further action before the 12 months expire. The second public hearing is scheduled for July 23.