Proposed Auburndale data center draws scrutiny over power demand, water use and impact

The promise of hundreds of jobs and billions in economic impact couldn't quiet the concerns of Auburndale residents Tuesday night, as nearly 500 packed a public workshop to debate a proposed hyperscale data center along Pace Road. The project, spearheaded by Pace Road DC Development LLC, has ignited a debate over power demands, water usage, and the potential impact on the surrounding community, highlighting anxieties about rapid development in Polk County and the strain on local resources.

What Happened

The proposed data center sits on 75 acres and is part of the Florida High Tech Corridor, a 30-year-old innovation district. In December 2023, Auburndale city commissioners approved a land-use designation and rezoning allowing for industrial and technology uses, paving the way for the data center. Construction began early this year on the first of four planned buildings. The development is expected to require up to 700 megawatts of electricity – enough to power an estimated 350,000 to 500,000 homes – and utilize over 4,600 gallons of potable water daily. The developer projects 292 permanent jobs and estimates the project will generate billions in economic and tax benefits over 15 years, while also stating the facility will not receive financial incentives.

Concerns arose during the public workshop regarding the potential impact on property values, utility costs, and the overall quality of life for residents. One resident, Teresa Detweiler, expressed worry that the data center could depress property values, saying, “People put their whole life savings into their property and homeownership, and you have a data center that's coming in and your property drops by 10 percent.” Robert Morris voiced concerns about the reliability of the local power grid, noting frequent outages in his neighborhood. “We have a new neighborhood, and our power goes out all the time, so it flickers and it’s gone out quite a few times without even rain or anything, so that’s kind of concerning,” he said.

The project's progression has also drawn scrutiny regarding the decision-making process. Some current city commissioners acknowledged they were not in office when the original land-use and zoning decisions were made. Commissioner Sean Levy stated, “I will not allow a rubber stamp process to jeopardize our resources, economy or the peace of our schools.” The city maintains that another Commission vote is not required due to the 2023 rezoning approval, but this has fueled further debate and questions about transparency.

Community Reaction

Water and Electricity Concerns

Residents’ anxieties extend beyond property values and grid reliability. The projected water usage of 4,665 gallons per day, while less than what would be required for a warehouse of the same size, still raised concerns about the potential impact on local water resources. The Southwest Florida Water Management District will require modifications to an existing Water Use Permit before the data center can operate, a process that requires approval from the district’s Governing Board. The need for TECO to secure approval from the Florida Public Service Commission for a new tariff governing electricity costs also remains a point of contention.

Noise and Environmental Impact

Beyond water and power, residents also questioned the potential for noise pollution. While the developer promises to limit noise at the property line to 50 decibels – about the level of a quiet office – this assurance was met with skepticism from some in attendance. The company claims the project was designed to minimize environmental impact and use less water than a previously planned industrial development for the same site. However, questions persist about the long-term effects of such a large-scale operation on the local environment.

What's Next

The developer has submitted building permit applications and a site plan for interior retrofits, which the city is currently reviewing. The process involves multiple layers of approval, including considerations from agencies outside the City Commission. Florida Senate Bill 484, signed into law earlier this year, mandates that data centers cover their electricity and infrastructure costs, preventing them from shifting those expenses to other ratepayers. This legislation aims to address concerns about the financial burden of data centers on the broader community. However, TECO's tariff still requires approval from the Florida Public Service Commission.

Marcus's Take

The Auburndale data center debate underscores a growing tension in Florida’s rapid development: the promise of economic opportunity versus the preservation of community character and quality of life. While the potential for jobs and tax revenue is undeniable, the strain on infrastructure – power, water, roads – cannot be ignored. It’s a reminder that responsible growth requires more than just promises of prosperity; it demands proactive planning, transparent communication, and a genuine commitment to protecting the resources that make our communities desirable places to live. The fact that some commissioners weren't even in office when the original zoning decisions were made highlights a critical need for greater long-term vision and accountability in local government. Families here deserve assurance that their property values won't be eroded, their power won't be interrupted, and their water resources will be protected. It’s a conversation that needs to continue, with residents actively engaged and policymakers willing to listen.

Resources

Residents seeking more information about the proposed data center can find details on the City of Auburndale. The Southwest Florida Water Management District provides information about water use permits and environmental regulations. Information about TECO’s services and rates can be found on the TECO Energy website. The Florida High Tech Corridor website offers details about the innovation district’s goals and initiatives.

The debate over the Auburndale data center is part of a larger conversation happening across Florida about the impact of these facilities on communities. While data centers are essential for the modern economy, their substantial resource demands require careful consideration and responsible planning. The questions raised by Auburndale residents – about power, water, noise, and transparency – are valid and deserve thorough answers. The long-term well-being of our communities depends on finding a balance between economic development and the preservation of our quality of life, ensuring that growth benefits everyone, not just a few.

The importance of strong families and stable communities is often overlooked in the rush for economic progress. When families are displaced or burdened by rising costs and diminished resources, the fabric of our society begins to fray. It’s a reminder that true prosperity isn’t just about dollars and cents; it’s about creating an environment where families can thrive, children can learn, and communities can flourish. The Auburndale data center debate presents an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to those values.

As the permitting process moves forward, residents should remain engaged and demand accountability from their elected officials. Open communication, transparency, and a willingness to compromise are essential for finding solutions that benefit both the community and the developer. The future of Auburndale – and perhaps other Florida communities facing similar challenges – depends on it.

The commitment to responsible development isn’t just a matter of policy; it’s a reflection of our values. It's about ensuring that the American dream – the promise of a stable home, a good education, and a secure future – remains within reach for all families. The Auburndale data center debate serves as a crucial reminder that progress must be pursued with prudence, foresight, and a deep respect for the communities we call home.

Looking ahead, it will be important to monitor the progress of the permitting process and track the actual impact of the data center on Auburndale’s resources and quality of life. The experiences of this community can serve as a valuable lesson for other Florida cities considering similar projects, highlighting the importance of proactive planning, transparent communication, and a commitment to protecting the interests of residents.

Ultimately, the Auburndale data center debate is a microcosm of the challenges facing Florida as it navigates a period of rapid growth. It’s a reminder that economic development must be pursued in a way that is sustainable, equitable, and respectful of the communities we call home. The choices we make today will shape the future of our state for generations to come.

Closing paragraph: The debate surrounding the Auburndale data center underscores the complex challenges facing Florida communities balancing economic growth with quality of life. With the permitting process ongoing and TECO seeking approval from the Florida Public Service Commission, residents will continue to monitor the project's impact and advocate for responsible development. The outcome will likely shape future discussions about data center placement and resource management across the state.