Commission backs pause on data centers
Citrus County commissioners voted unanimously to move forward with a nearly yearlong moratorium on data center approvals. This decision followed significant public opposition to a proposed data center by The Deltona Corporation, allowing the county to study impacts and develop regulations. Staff will now draft an ordinance for a formal vote at the next meeting.
Citrus County commissioners unanimously voted on Tuesday to advance a proposal for a nearly yearlong moratorium on data center approvals. This decision came after a heavily attended commission meeting where numerous residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed data center project by The Deltona Corporation at the Holder Industrial Park. Commission Chairwoman Diana Finegan, who moved for the 11-month and 30-day pause, cited rapidly evolving AI technology and public concern as reasons to halt approvals temporarily, allowing county officials time to study potential impacts and develop comprehensive regulations.
The moratorium, if formally enacted at the next board meeting, would cover building permits, development orders, and rezonings related to data centers. While it would not prevent discussions on future projects, it would stop any approvals during this period of study. Josh Wooten, president and CEO of the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce, criticized Finegan for not controlling public outbursts during the contentious meeting.
The proposed data center by Deltona Corporation involves comprehensive plan amendments and zoning changes for over 800 acres to permit heavy industrial uses, including data centers. Residents, some wearing anti-data center shirts, urged commissioners to reject the project and support a permanent ban, with Del Wray warning of electoral consequences. Commissioner Holly Davis, while supporting a moratorium, expressed concerns that a permanent ban could lead to legal challenges for the county.