DeSoto County pauses new data center applications after public backlash

ARCADIA, Fla. (WINK)— DeSoto County commissioners unanimously passed a one-year pause on new data center projects Tuesday night, as people lined up to oppose plans for a massive data center just outside Arcadia. 

The legislation stops the acceptance, processing, review, and approval of data center applications for one year. The pause gives county leaders time to study the impact of data centers and consider new regulations, according to commission documents. 

However, it doesn't apply to the massive project planned just east of town. What began as a localized plan for a 34-acre site at a decommissioned natural gas plant near Roan Street is planned to morph into something much larger. WINK Investigates obtained county emails and rezoning filings that show the project could expand to well over 1,000 acres.

The project has sparked significant backlash in DeSoto County, as people question how it will benefit the community.

Earlier this month, the DeSoto County Planing Commission recommended extending the moratorium to cover the Roan Street project - and keep it in place for two years. 

On Tuesday, County Attorney Valerie Vicente recommended sticking with the original proposal. She said it carried less legal risk. 

"The county can, of course, extend the moratorium" Vicente said. "My recommendation is in six months increments until such time as all regulations are in place."

READ MORE: Collier and DeSoto counties to make data center development decisions

Some public speakers supported the pause. Others argued it should be stronger. Nearly everyone opposed new data centers in DeSoto County. 

"The decision before you tonight is about much more than a data center. It's about water. It is about stewardship," said Alexandria Reed. "It is about whether the people of DeSoto County can trust that their elected officials will place the long-term health of this county above the short-term interests of a private corporation."