First Public Hearing to Consider Ordinance Amending Hernando County Code to Impose Moratorium on Processing Applications for Development Orders and Development Permits for Data Centers

Shared technical background on power plants and cooling technology, noting data centers generate their own power and use advanced cooling.

Asked whether pending permit applications would be covered under the moratorium.

Urged a permanent ban on data centers due to massive water consumption, electricity demands, noise, and aquifer risks.

Questioned the necessity of data storage and surveillance applications associated with AI and data centers.

Praised county water conservation efforts and urged strong protections for local watersheds against data center impacts.

Argued that data centers violate national security acts and state foreign interference restrictions, urging a permanent ban.

Highlighted local water shortages at Weeki Wachee Springs and opposed data centers threatening water pressure and quality.

Stated a one-year moratorium is too short and warned of noise pollution and well water depletion.

Expressed concerns regarding ultrasonic sound impacts, water depletion, and environmental threats.

Applauded board camaraderie, suggested targeting coastal engineering, and highlighted the livestock industry.

Asked for transparency regarding any pending economic development projects or data center discussions.

Submitted written questions regarding non-disclosure agreements, sunshine law compliance, and independent studies.

Detailing environmental and health impacts of data centers, including water contamination, noise, and air pollution.

Read a statement opposing county development that harms the country setting and natural environment.

Inquired about the types of studies and data needed to legally support a permanent ban.

Expressed skepticism about whether one year is enough and urged competent legal and staff oversight.