Planning and Development Commission Board - June 18, 2026

The Citrus County Planning and Development Commission held a public hearing on June 18, 2026, to consider two applications related to the expansion and rezoning of the Holder Industrial Park (HIP) sub area plan, including a comprehensive plan amendment to change approximately 777 acres from residential to heavy industrial use and an expansion of the county's plan service area. The discussion focused heavily on the potential development of data centers within the industrial park, addressing issues such as water consumption, noise, environmental impacts, compatibility with surrounding residential areas, and infrastructure capacity. Expert testimony was presented on noise and vibration standards, water use including closed-loop cooling systems, and the challenges of defining and regulating data centers under current county and state codes. Numerous public comments expressed strong opposition citing concerns about environmental degradation, water resource strain, noise pollution, property values, and community compatibility. Staff recommended denial of the applications due to incompleteness and incompatibility with the comprehensive plan, particularly regarding the expansion of heavy industrial zoning into predominantly residential and agricultural areas. The commission voted to deny the applications and recommended that the applicant work with staff to address outstanding issues. The matter will proceed to the Board of County Commissioners with a potential continuance requested by the applicant.