EXCLUSIVE: Okeechobee County proposes plan changes that could open door to more data centers

Okeechobee County, Florida, is advancing significant amendments to its comprehensive plan, a long-term blueprint for development, that could pave the way for increased data center construction across the area. These proposed changes are scheduled for a public hearing on Thursday, where county commissioners will review the amendments. The revisions include creating a new land-use category specifically for technology-related developments, such as data centers, and reclassifying agricultural land into a growth overlay to permit more intensive, industrial-style projects. The county's initiative comes amidst existing resident opposition to a proposed facility known as the Okee One data center. Local residents have voiced concerns regarding potential impacts on water usage, power demand, environmental footprint, and transparency surrounding such developments. Investigative Reporter Terri Parker sought comment from County Administrator Jessica Bezares and Planning Director Bill Royce regarding the impetus for these broad policy changes and any connection to projects like Okee One, but received no response as of publication. If approved by the commissioners, the plan would proceed to state agencies for review before returning for final county approval.