1. United States
2. Fla.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my growing concern about the rapid expansion of large-scale AI data centers across our state. While technological growth and economic development are important, these projects should not move forward without stronger safeguards to protect residents, local infrastructure, natural resources, and long-term energy affordability. Data centers consume enormous amounts of electricity and water, placing increasing stain on power grids and public utilities. As more facilities are approved, many residents are concerned that the costs of expanding energy infrastructure and meeting rising demand will ultimately fall on households and small businesses through higher utility rates. Communities should not be forced to subsidize the operational needs of massive tech corporations. I urge you to start requiring stronger environmental oversight and ongoing public reporting for existing and proposed facilities. Residents deserve transparency regarding energy consumption, water usage, emissions, land impacts, and long-term infrastructure costs associated with these developments. Oversight should be proactive and continuous, not limited to the initial approval process. In addition, I also ask that you oppose closed-door agreements, excessive tax incentives, and non-disclosure agreements that prevent meaningful public accountability. Local communities have a right to understand how these deals affect public resources, tax revenues, land use, and utility systems before decisions are finalized. Given the long-term consequences these projects may have on our environment, energy systems, and communities, I respectfully ask that you consider pausing approval of new data center construction until stronger statewide standards and public-interest protections are established. Economic growth should not come at the expense of transparency, affordability, environmental responsibility, or community well-being. I hope you take a balanced approach that puts residents first. Thank you for your time and consideration.