A rezoning request that could pave the way for a data center in the small Citrus County community of Holder has drawn sharp opposition from residents who fear the project would disrupt the area’s rural character.

The Deltona Corporation, which already controls 557 acres near Lecanto Highway and US-41 zoned for industrial use, is seeking to rezone an additional 800 acres to the east and south for industrial purposes. The company has said it is keeping its options open regarding a data center on the site.

Residents raised concerns at a county meeting about the potential strain a data center could place on local water and power supplies, as well as noise pollution from such a facility. Some objected to a proposed 100-foot buffer between any industrial development and neighboring properties, calling it insufficient. Hundreds of residents have signed petitions opposing the project.

Deltona’s presentation projected roughly 2,500 construction jobs, 825 permanent positions, and $105 million in property tax revenue — figures supporters cited as a long-term economic benefit to the county.

Citrus County commissioners delayed a final vote on the rezoning request by several weeks. The developer said it will monitor action by the Florida state legislature, which is currently weighing regulations on data centers’ impact on power and water infrastructure, before submitting a revised proposal.

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