Kentuckians push back against data centers, call for regulations at Frankfort listening session
Kentucky residents voiced strong opposition to the planned expansion of data centers during a listening session in Frankfort, citing electricity costs, water consumption, environmental risks and tax incentives. Lawmakers are considering regulations and a possible pause on new data center development, while Louisville officials are proposing noise rules for future facilities.
Kentucky residents and lawmakers held a contentious data center listening session in Frankfort as the state faces three operating facilities and 18 more planned. Speakers called for protections against utility rate increases, limits on water use, environmental safeguards and an end to tax incentives for data centers. Most attendees opposed hyperscale facilities, although retired engineer Martin Rivers argued that data centers should be treated as infrastructure.
Louisville resident Shawnte West said she was unaware that the Steve Poe data center planned for Campground Road would be located less than two miles from her home. Rep. Joshua Watkins, D-Louisville, said companies had moved quickly in counties without planning and zoning agencies. Kentucky Democrats said a development pause or moratorium would require Republican support in the next legislative session, while Louisville's Metro Office of Planning is proposing noise regulations for future data centers.