OCALA, FL (352Today.com) – A Change.org petition launched by Marion County resident Joel Hickman on Friday, July 24, 2026, calling for the postponement of a planned Board of County Commissioners workshop on data centers has gathered more than 5,150 verified signatures.
The petition asks the current Marion County Board of County Commissioners to reschedule the workshop, set for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at the McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, until after newly elected commissioners take office in November 2026.
Hickman and supporters argue the timing is problematic. The workshop falls only a few months before the new board assumes responsibility, and they contend that long-term decisions about data centers, which can affect infrastructure, electricity, water use and community character, should involve the officials who will oversee any outcomes. The petition emphasizes transparency, democratic process and giving newly elected commissioners a direct role rather than leaving the discussion solely with the outgoing board…