One-on-one with Mayor Ken Welch: Data center caution, the Moffitt deal rejection and Flock camera surveillance

Managing a $1.2 billion operating budget while navigating post-hurricane recovery, St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch is defending his record ahead of a runoff election against former Governor Charlie Crist. In a one-on-one interview with Fox 13 Political Editor Craig Patrick, Welch addressed key decisions from his tenure—from his rejection of the Moffitt Cancer Center proposal to conceding the city could have done better turning around home repair permits after recent hurricanes.Data Centers and the $1.2 Billion BudgetLoudoun County, Virginia, generates $1.2 billion in annual tax revenue from data centers—roughly matching St. Petersburg's entire operating budget. Asked whether St. Petersburg should court AI data centers for additional tax revenue, Welch urged restraint, noting that current city and Pinellas County codes prohibit data centers.Welch pointed to energy consumption and water usage as significant feasibility concerns that require thorough study."Feasibility is going to be a tou