Lexington city council put all data center applications or development on hold through October 31, in order to gather public input and hammer out policies surrounding the controversial projects.
In a 20-page draft zoning document, city planning staff recommend that no major data centers be allowed in Fayette County. But, as Aaron Mudd explains, the plans would allow for smaller operations under specific circumstances.
"Among the proposals are a complete ban on data centers in agricultural zones. Only minor data centers, defined as 50,000 square feet or less, would be allowed in certain industrial zones as a conditional use," Mudd says. "That's only if they meet a number of operational and environmental standards, such as for controlling noise and accepted water and energy consumption."
The move to pump the brakes on data centers in Fayette County was spurred by news that a data center developer was eying a former Lexmark site on New Circle Road.
The full data center draft policy is available to read on the city's engagement platform, engage.lexingtonky.gov — where residents are also encouraged to offer their opinions.
As for in-person discussions, residents can attend a Planning Commission public hearing slated for July 30, where the draft zoning changes will be heard before they go to the full council.