Data Centers on the Suncoast

Data centers are expanding rapidly across Florida, bringing promises of investment and economic growth alongside questions about electricity demand, water use, land development and political influence.

Join Suncoast Searchlight and Seeking Rents for a public conversation about what data centers are, why developers are looking to Southwest Florida and what these projects could mean for local communities.

Journalists covering the issue locally and statewide will share what their reporting has uncovered, explain the decisions now taking shape and discuss the potential benefits and tradeoffs. The program will include time for audience questions.

Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026
6–7:30 p.m.
Jacaranda Library
4143 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged.

Meet the panelists

Alice Herman, Suncoast Searchlight
Alice has reported extensively on proposed data center development in DeSoto County, including the land involved, potential water and electricity demands and the local decisions shaping the projects.

Jason Garcia, Seeking Rents
Jason reports on the intersection of business, politics and public policy in Florida. His recent work has examined the growing political influence and campaign spending connected to the data center industry.

Additional panelist to be announced