Commissioner Cast No Vote for AI Data Centers

By: Shelia Mader

Commissioners heard public comment on a proposed moratorium or ban on AI data centers in Jackson County, with most speakers urging the board to protect local water, power and rural quality of life.

Elijah Simmons, an eco-tour guide at Merritt’s Mill Pond, said AI data centers raise serious water concerns because many rely on water for cooling. He said even smaller centers can use water comparable to 1,000 households a day, and warned that water lost through evaporation would reduce supply and raise costs.

Shauna Easterling said one large-scale AI data center can consume up to 5 million gallons of water per day, more than the daily use she cited for the entire town of Marianna. She also raised concerns about chemicals used in cooling systems and their potential impact on waterways, wildlife and residents.

Chuck Deal supported a temporary moratorium but cautioned against a permanent ban. He said data centers are part of modern infrastructure and urged commissioners to study the issue carefully before sending a message that Jackson County is “not open for business.”

Beverly Cowan, who said she lives less than a mile from the proposed site, urged commissioners to protect Compass Lake, local water, the power grid, rural life and the night sky. She said any ordinance needed strong enforcement and stiff penalties.

After discussion, the board first voted 4-1 to ban data centers and associated businesses, with Commissioner Paul Donofro voting no.

Donofro then explained his vote: “And let me clarify my opposition because I know I'm going to be, I know I'm going to be chastised on Facebook voting against it. But my only, my only reason for voting against this motion for all the unions is I still think it needs to be a 1-year moratorium. It gives us ample time to do the research.

You can wave your hands all you want to. I'm just trying to state why. You mind if I State why I voted against that?”

Chairman Jamey Westbrook responded: “No, sir, you go right ahead. You got the floor.”

Donofro continued, “I think it needs to be a temporary moratorium more than a permanent moratorium. Even with a permanent moratorium, we have the capability of this board lifting it at any time. So anyway, that's my reason for voting against it. I'm all in favor of the 1-year moratorium. I think that there's a lot of concerns that have been raised by our constituents, and I agree with most of those concerns. I just think a 1-year moratorium is more judicious than a permanent ban.”

The final motion was for a permanent ban on all data centers and accessory structures, effective June 23 after the second reading. That motion passed 4-1, with Donofro voting no. A final vote will be taken following the public hearing on June 23, 2026 at the 6:00 p.m. board meeting.