6.16.26 Pasco County Board of County Commissioner Meeting (Afternoon Session)

The Pasco County Board of County Commissioners held an afternoon session on June 16, 2026, focusing heavily on land use and development issues, particularly a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers and large-scale data center customers within unincorporated Pasco County. The moratorium aims to pause new applications for permits related to data centers to allow staff to study impacts on electricity, water consumption, environmental concerns, and land use compatibility. Public comments overwhelmingly expressed concerns about environmental, health, and community impacts of data centers, including water usage, noise, pollution, and job quality. One data center developer requested an exemption for a small, low-impact facility using closed-loop cooling with no water use. The board discussed the broad legal definition of data centers under state law and the need to close potential loopholes. Other agenda items included amendments to local ordinances, zoning changes, and updates on capital improvement projects, including a $1 billion water and sewer infrastructure plan. The board also discussed initiatives to support small businesses through streamlined processes and incentives. Motions were passed to approve various ordinances and continue certain zoning items. The meeting included presentations on disaster recovery fund amendments and public safety updates. Overall, the session was marked by significant public engagement on procurement and regulatory policy related to data center development and infrastructure planning.