Metro data center public listening sessions begin on new proposed regulations
Metro Louisville is holding public listening sessions on proposed regulations for data centers, which include setback requirements and restrictions on power sources. While some consider these a good start, opponents aim to stop all data center development in Jefferson County.
Metro Louisville has initiated public listening sessions to gather feedback on proposed regulations for data centers, following weeks of prior public comment collection. Reporter Mark Stevens highlighted that the Metro Government received over 3,600 public comments on its initial proposal.
The new regulations introduce specific setback requirements, mandating that data centers be located hundreds of feet away from nursing homes, schools, and existing residential properties (500 feet for large-scale centers, 200 feet for smaller ones). Additionally, the rules prohibit power plants and gas turbines within proposed data center sites and stipulate that new data centers must not contribute to increased electric rates.
Despite these proposed changes, a group of opponents expressed that the regulations do not go far enough. They are actively trying to halt a "hyperscale data center" project on Campground Road and declared their ultimate goal is to prevent any data centers from establishing in Jefferson County. Concerns were also raised about the lack of public awareness regarding the Campground Road project in certain neighborhoods.