The Citrus County Board of Commissioners voted to impose a temporary moratorium on data center developments in the county, giving officials time to gather more information on the impact of such projects. The moratorium was approved on Monday night, during a meeting at the Citrus County Administration Building, 405 S. Main St, Inverness.
The temporary ban, which will last for six months, allows county staff to study the effects of data centers on the area’s infrastructure, environment, and economy. Commissioner Tom Irwin said the moratorium will give the county time to “get our arms around” the issue and develop regulations that address concerns from residents and businesses. The county has been attracting attention from data center developers in recent months, with several proposals submitted for sites in the area.
Some of the concerns cited by residents and officials include the potential impact on the county’s water supply, traffic, and property values. The moratorium will allow the county to assess these concerns and develop policies that balance economic growth with environmental and community protection.
According to Commissioner Irwin, the county has received several inquiries from data center developers, and some have expressed interest in building facilities in the area. The temporary moratorium will give the county time to evaluate these proposals and develop a comprehensive plan for data center development.
Residents and business owners can provide input on the issue during upcoming public hearings and workshops. The county will also conduct a study to assess the economic and environmental impacts of data centers.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
Sources: Citrus County Chronicle – Inverness
