Mercer County zoning ordinance sent back to committee
The Mercer County Fiscal Court unanimously sent a proposed zoning ordinance, which would have permitted a data center near Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, back to the Planning and Zoning Committee. The decision followed concerns raised by magistrates and strong opposition from local residents and Shaker Village leadership regarding environmental, infrastructural, and economic impacts. The action effectively restarts the process for the controversial measure.
The Mercer County Fiscal Court in Kentucky voted unanimously to return Ordinance 2026-08 to the Planning and Zoning Committee, effectively tabling a measure that would have permitted data center development near the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. The decision, made during a specially called meeting for the ordinance's second reading, followed significant concerns voiced by county magistrates and strong community opposition.
Magistrates expressed apprehension regarding the potential environmental, infrastructural, pollution, and economic impacts of data centers. Billy Rankin, president and CEO of Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, articulated his organization's opposition, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning and community involvement before such zoning decisions are finalized. He highlighted Shaker Village's designated special status, asserting it should not be a point of controversy.
Zoe Strecker, representing the local group We Are Mercer County, lauded the outcome, noting that citizen research and advocacy played a crucial role in educating public officials. Strecker indicated that communities like Mercer County, with their comparatively cheaper land and electricity, are attractive targets for data center projects, and her group remains committed to continued engagement.
The unanimous vote means the zoning process will restart, preventing data center applications from being submitted in the immediate future, as would have occurred had the ordinance passed. This outcome marks a temporary victory for local residents and Shaker Village, who are prepared for ongoing efforts to protect the region.