Pasco County residents speak out against large-scale data centers
The Pasco County Commission held its first public hearing on a proposal for a 12-month moratorium on large-scale data center projects. Residents voiced strong opposition, citing concerns about electricity consumption and environmental impact. Commissioners are expected to vote on the measure on July 14th, while Lakeland City Commission considers a similar ordinance.
The Pasco County Commission recently conducted its initial public hearing concerning a proposed 12-month moratorium on new large-scale data center developments. If enacted, this pause would prevent the approval of data center projects exceeding a specific size, allowing county leaders time to assess their potential environmental and community impacts.
During the hearing, dozens of residents expressed their strong opposition, urging county officials to prohibit large data centers in their communities. Speakers highlighted that data centers are attracted to the county for its "untapped resources" and voiced concerns about the strain AI data centers place on the electricity system, which could lead to increased utility bills for residents. Commissioners are scheduled to hold a second public hearing and vote on the moratorium on July 14th. Separately, the Lakeland City Commission is slated to consider a similar ordinance on July 6th.