Lexington council places moratorium on data centers, passes city budget
Lexington's Urban County Council unanimously enacted a moratorium on new data center development, effective until October 31, 2024. This pause allows the community to review and establish regulations for data centers, addressing concerns about limited job creation and potential increases in utility costs for residents.
Lexington's Urban County Council has unanimously approved a moratorium on all new data center development within the city, a decision made during its final vote on the annual budget. The pause, which lasts until October 31 of this year, aims to provide time for the community to carefully review and establish regulations surrounding these projects.
Mayor Linda Gorton expressed her support for the moratorium, stating that the community needs to thoroughly consider data centers due to their limited job creation and potential to increase utility costs for local residents. She advocated for "tight controls" and confirmed her refusal to support public incentives for a data center previously proposed at the Lexmark property. Council member Tyler Morton echoed these sentiments, highlighting the action as an opportunity for local leaders to thoughtfully assess the impacts and long-term implications of data centers before further projects proceed, emphasizing the ongoing need for community input.
A community engagement meeting regarding data centers is scheduled for 6 PM on Monday, June 15, at the Lyric Theatre. Separately, the council adopted an $847 million budget, which includes significant investments in public safety services, accessibility improvements, vehicle fleet maintenance, and additional security measures, as well as $5 million allocated for future winter weather response.