Citrus County commissioners voted unanimously on Monday night, March 18, 2024, around 6:00 PM, to halt two proposed data center projects in the county. The decision was made during a meeting at the Citrus County Board of Commissioners Chambers, located at 405A W. Adams St, Inverness, Florida.
The halt on the projects comes as concerns rise about wealth inequality and the impact of such large-scale developments on local residents. Commissioner John McCray, who represents District 1, stated that the decision was made to ensure that the county is not harming its residents in the process of economic growth. “We need to make sure that we’re not just bringing in new businesses, but also making sure that our current residents are not left behind,” McCray said.
The two proposed data center projects were slated for construction in the Withlacoochee and Crystal River areas. Commissioner Gary K. Johnson expressed concerns about the potential strain on local resources, including water and electricity. “We need to take a step back and assess the impact of these projects on our community,” Johnson said.
The Citrus County Chronicle reported that the data centers would have brought in significant tax revenue, but at a potential cost to local residents. The county has been grappling with issues of wealth inequality, and some residents have expressed concerns that the data centers would exacerbate the problem.
The commissioners’ decision to halt the projects has been met with mixed reactions from the community. Some residents have expressed support for the decision, citing concerns about the impact on local resources and the environment. Others have expressed disappointment, citing the potential economic benefits of the projects.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
