AUBURNDALE, FL — First, we want to recognize Gary White of The Ledger for his excellent reporting on the proposed data center in Auburndale. Mr White provided a balanced, informative, and detailed report examining the development and its potential impact on the community. We highly recommend that our readers take the time to read his article to better understand the project.
The City of Auburndale is facing questions about transparency and government oversight as residents express frustration over a proposed data center along Pace Road, made possible in part by previous industrial zoning approvals by the Auburndale City Commissioners.
According to The Ledger, Hillwood Development Company submitted a building permit application to convert two existing buildings at 810 Pace Road into a data center. The property is already zoned for industrial use, allowing the proposed development under existing city regulations.
City records show that the Auburndale City Commission previously approved industrial zoning and development plans involving property along Pace Road in 2021 and 2023. Although these approvals have not been directly linked to the proposed data center, yet, the development has renewed concerns among residents. Many have expressed frustration over what they view as reckless development approvals by city and county commissioners without adequate infrastructure to support continued growth.
Eye In The Sky News spoke with Courtney Saylor, an Auburndale mother who lives approximately a quarter-mile from the proposed development. Saylor raised concerns about whether nearby residents have been adequately informed about the project.
“The people of Auburndale deserve a voice in what comes into their community, and our elected officials have a responsibility to listen to and represent the people they were elected to serve,” she said.
“My biggest concern with the proposed data center is transparency and accountability, ensuring residents are fully informed and that no financial burden from this development is passed on to Auburndale taxpayers.”
The proposal raises questions about the city’s existing zoning regulations, infrastructure demands, and whether additional costs associated with the development could affect residents.
At this time, it remains unclear whether the proposed data center will require additional City Commission approval or whether it can proceed entirely through the city’s existing permitting process.
Eye In The Sky News is seeking additional information regarding previous zoning decisions, the approval process, and the potential impact of the proposed development on Auburndale residents.
SOURCE: Gary White, The Ledger; City of Auburndale City Commission meeting agendas and records
