MARTIN COUNTY, Fla (CBS12) — Martin County commissioners are asking staff to bring back a proposal for a possible one-year pause on large-scale data center development as they examine the potential effects on the community.
The discussion was not originally scheduled for Tuesday’s County Commission meeting, but it followed public comments from residents and others who urged commissioners to act.
Majority of Commissioners voted to have a moratorium proposal brought back for formal consideration.
Martin County takes first step toward a data center moratorium (WPEC)
Former gubernatorial candidate and businessman James Fishback was among those who spoke during public comment, raising concerns about possible effects on electricity costs, water supply and nearby property values.
“We have to ask ourselves, despite all of the drawbacks of data centers, are there really any upsides?” Fishback said. “Are there upsides to building a data center that we are now being told the internet won’t work because there’s a two-million-square-foot facility built just outside of our neighborhood? Netflix, email, ChatGPT will suddenly shut down unless Martin County residents accept higher electric bills, lower water pressure and lower property values.”
Commissioners said they want more information before deciding whether to restrict new applications for hyperscale data centers in unincorporated Martin County.
Commissioner Ed Ciampi said the county should study what data centers could mean for the environment, economy and community while allowing residents and experts to weigh in.
Commissioner Sarah Heard Vargas said she supports a “hard pause” while officials continue researching the issue.
Martin County takes first step toward a data center moratorium (WPEC)
County staff and the county attorney are expected to return with information about the county’s authority to impose a moratorium, including potential legal questions involving state laws SB 180 and SB 484.
During Tuesday night’s meeting, the county attorney said the laws create a legal gray area. While SB 180 limits certain local moratoriums, SB 484 includes language encouraging local governments to address data center issues through comprehensive planning and land development regulations.
Any proposed ordinance establishing a moratorium would likely require two public hearings.
A moratorium is not currently in effect in Martin County, and commissioners have not yet set a date for the proposal to return for a formal vote.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.