DeSoto County Blocks Second Data Center Bid

DeSoto County commissioners voted down a proposal to rezone a 554-acre parcel for a data center complex on Wednesday night. This decision marked the second consecutive rejection of the project by the board this week, halting the expansion of facilities in the rural county.

Developers from DCIP Group have sought approval for more than 15 facilities across the county. The specific site up for vote on Wednesday was recommended for rejection by the county Planning Commission in October. According to a staff report, the developers planned to build nine data center facilities totaling 2.1 million square feet on that specific plot.

The commission is divided on the project's merits. Commissioner Jerod Gross, who voted against the rezoning, stated he does not oppose data centers generally but felt the location was incorrect. He cited the staff report and existing conditions as reasons for his vote. Commissioner Judy Schaefer also voted no, expressing doubt that hyperscale facilities align with the county's current growth plan despite her openness to future proposals.

In contrast, Commissioner J.C. Deriso voted to approve the land change. He argued that the county has the control to manage the project properly, believing it could have a positive and lasting impact on the community.

Planning Director Misty Servia told the commission that the lack of specific regulations for data centers complicated the review process. She noted that operational details were missing, making it difficult to verify compliance with future land use categories. Servia specifically flagged uncertainties regarding wastewater handling and whether diesel generators would be used for backup power.

Jon Brown, CEO of DCIP Group, disputed the claim that sufficient details were not provided. He stated the company would dispose of wastewater responsibly and is open to enforceable noise limits. Brown emphasized that the facilities would rely on power generated on-site from the 34-acre plot the county rezoned in March, rather than drawing directly from the local energy grid.

Public testimony was largely critical of the developers. Stacy Yoder, a local resident, told the commissioners that their constituents had spoken and did not want the data center. Tim Ritchie, a resident from nearby Charlotte County, raised concerns about impacts on the regional water supply and the societal effects of artificial intelligence.