Fayette County commissioners approve Jeffersonville annexations, review data center moratorium and Avery’s Law

At a recent meeting, the Fayette County Commissioners addressed multiple local issues, including approving annexations into Jeffersonville, reviewing Ohio's new dangerous-dog statute known as Avery's Law, and considering a proposed moratorium on data center construction.

Dan Drake, along with Paint Township trustees, formally requested the commissioners to enact a one-year moratorium on data center development within Paint Township. This request follows a purchase offer for the Miller farm on Prairie Road, which is slated for a data center facility. The proposed facility would include an on-site turbine power system and independent cooling infrastructure, necessitating a rezoning from agricultural to industrial use.

Fayette County Engineer Jason Little advised against immediate action, suggesting the county's new land-use plan should be finalized first. He also noted that any development near State Route 734 and Prairie Road would require a comprehensive traffic study. Commissioner Tony Anderson confirmed the board would take the moratorium request under advisement.

Additionally, the commissioners reviewed House Bill 247 (Avery's Law) concerning dangerous dogs, discussing implications for the county animal shelter regarding aggressive animals and potential county liability. Other agenda items included approving an agreement with HDR Engineering Inc. for water pressure investigations in the Lakeview Water System and authorizing transfers to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Public Assistance Fund, and reviewing a school resource officer contract for Miami Trace School District.