North Port to host a Commission Workshop on data centers

Published on August 11, 2026

NORTH PORT, FL - The North Port City Commission is holding a workshop focusing on data centers on Thursday, Sept. 3, at 6 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers at City Hall. The meeting is open to the public and is intended to present commissioners and the public with information from subject matter experts as North Port considers the opportunities and impacts associated with data center development.

The workshop comes as data centers have generated significant community conversation in recent months. The workshop is designed to move beyond speculation and provide residents with factual, expert-driven information on topics such as energy demand, water use and infrastructure planning.

Expected participants include representatives from Florida Power & Light (FPL), Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority and other industry experts.

Each speaker will make a short presentation followed by an opportunity for questions from the Commission.

The City has launched a dedicated information page where residents can find background materials, frequently asked questions and updates on the data center discussion: NorthPortFL.gov/DataCenterInfo.

The City also encourages residents to complete a short survey to help shape the focus of the Sept. 3 workshop. Community input from the survey will help ensure the meeting addresses the questions and concerns residents care about most.

“The workshop is an opportunity for the Commission, residents and City staff to learn more and better understand the potential benefits and impacts to guide future discussions,” City Manager Jerome Fletcher said. “We’ve heard the community’s concerns, and this meeting, along with the online information page and survey, is how we’re working to be transparent and responsive as this conversation continues.”

Residents can provide public comment in person or via voicemail or email. Visit NorthPortFL.gov/PublicComment to learn more or submit a comment.

The workshop will be streamed live and available for on-demand viewing on the City’s YouTube channel.