Marion County approves 12-month moratorium on large-scale data centers
Marion County commissioners have enacted a 12-month moratorium on large-scale data center applications, with an exemption for facilities under 50 megawatts. The decision was driven by concerns over infrastructure strain, water consumption, power demands, and noise from hyperscale data centers. Staff will now conduct studies to develop new code revisions.
Marion County commissioners have voted 4-1 to enact a 12-month temporary moratorium on accepting or processing applications for large-scale data centers, artificial intelligence processing hubs, and cryptocurrency mining operations. The measure includes an exemption for smaller facilities utilizing under 50 megawatts.
The decision, made by the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, aims to prevent massive hyperscale data centers from overburdening local infrastructure, water resources, and the power grid. Commissioner Matt McClain voiced strong support for the pause, emphasizing concerns about water consumption, power, noise, and location. Chief Assistant County Attorney Dana Olesky clarified that existing land development codes are inadequate for these unique facilities, referencing Florida Statute 163.326 and Senate Bill 484, which affirm local zoning authority.
Commissioner Kathy Bryant cast the lone dissenting vote on the initial motion, arguing against the 50-megawatt exemption, stating that even 49-megawatt facilities are significant and that county staff are not yet equipped to handle such applications. Commissioners Craig Curry and Michelle Stone supported the moratorium to preserve Marion County's rural character and natural resources. Residents expressed mixed views during the public hearing; while many in the past opposed data centers, some speakers like Jack Pritchard and Don Browning highlighted the economic benefits, job creation, and potential tax revenue from such developments. Conversely, other residents like Cheryl Sacchetti and Tara Barton supported the moratorium due to environmental and health concerns, including water withdrawals, noise pollution, and the impact on the Floridan Aquifer.
With the moratorium in place, growth services staff and the Land Development Regulation Committee will conduct public workshops and comprehensive studies to evaluate groundwater impacts, grid capacity, and cooling mandates. These efforts will inform proposed code revisions to be presented to the board.