Holmes County moves forward with a moratorium on AI data centers
Holmes County, Florida, is moving to enact a one-year moratorium on AI data centers due to environmental concerns raised by residents. Commissioners have also requested an ordinance for a permanent ban, with public hearings scheduled for finalization.
Holmes County, Florida, is taking steps to prevent the construction of AI data centers, following similar discussions in neighboring Jackson, Bay, and Walton counties. During a recent commission meeting, residents voiced significant environmental concerns, citing potential impacts on water availability, springs, rivers, lakes, as well as increased heat, radiation, and noise, which they believe could damage health and property values.
The Holmes County Commissioners approved moving forward with an ordinance to implement a one-year moratorium on all proposed data centers within the county. The county attorney explained that this measure would provide time for officials to research the issue further, assess potential state actions, and temporarily halt new data center applications. Despite this, a large majority of residents advocated for a permanent ban.
Walton County Commissioner Dan Curry, present at the meeting, advised Holmes County to follow Walton County's lead in stopping data center development, emphasizing the need for unified action across North Florida. In response, Commissioners have instructed the county attorney to draft a second ordinance for a permanent ban on AI data centers, collaborating with attorneys from Walton and Jackson counties to ensure a legally defensible solution. Two public hearings are scheduled, with the first on June 16th, before a final decision is made. Holmes County officials noted that no data center applications have been submitted yet, but they aim to be proactive.