Volusia County council to decide on ban for large-scale AI data centers

Volusia County leaders are expected to take a final vote on Tuesday on whether to ban large-scale artificial intelligence data centers in the county’s unincorporated areas. The proposal passed unanimously, 7-0, at its first reading. Supporters say the ban would help protect the area’s water supply and natural resources, while concerns have also been raised about electricity demand, noise and the potential impact on nearby neighborhoods.County Council Member Don Dempsey, who supports the ban, said he is concerned about the potential effects of a large-scale data center on the aquifer and nearby property owners.“Nobody wants it in their backyard and I understand that, but even more so, we are prone to sinkholes in this area and I think it could do a lot of damage to property owners,” Dempsey said.Channel 9 asked residents what they think about the proposed ban, and opinions were mixed.“I think they’re necessary if you want AI and you want all these technology advancements, so kinda need