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Citrus County, FL - Citrus County leaders are considering a temporary halt on new artificial intelligence data center applications as residents continue raising concerns about the potential environmental and infrastructure impact of large scale developments proposed in the area.
The discussion took place during a recent Citrus County Commission meeting in Inverness, where community members voiced concerns over a proposed data center project planned near Holder in Citrus County.
Officials said commissioners are evaluating a possible moratorium that would temporarily stop new applications while the county reviews zoning rules and land use policies related to AI driven industrial facilities.
According to county officials and public comments made during the meeting, residents expressed concerns about the amount of electricity and water required to operate AI data centers.
Community members also raised questions about increased traffic, noise, environmental effects and the possible strain on local infrastructure and utility systems.
The proposed development reportedly involves more than 1,300 acres near U.S. Highway 41.
Residents opposing the project said they are concerned the facility could alter the rural character of the community and negatively affect nearby neighborhoods and wildlife habitats.
Others questioned how backup generators and cooling systems used by data centers could impact air quality and natural resources in the region.
County commissioners have not approved the moratorium at this time, but officials said the pause would allow additional time to study how similar projects have affected other communities and determine whether current county regulations adequately address AI related developments.
The issue is expected to return for further discussion during upcoming commission meetings as county leaders continue reviewing potential policy options.
