Oldham County Data Center moratorium remains in place

Oldham County, Kentucky, is actively engaged in developing regulations for future data center projects, with an existing moratorium on such developments remaining in effect. The discussion follows a contentious Fiscal Court hearing where the Oldham County Planning Commission's recommended guidelines were presented. These guidelines included specific requirements for cooling and noise reduction equipment, generator power, and setback distances of at least 1,000 feet from neighboring properties and 1,500 feet from schools.

Neighbors expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over energy consumption, environmental impact, and noise levels. Conversely, Oldham County Judge-Executive David Voegele voiced apprehension that overly stringent guidelines could deter potential developers from investing in the county. A council member suggested a permanent moratorium, while Voegele cautioned against such a broad ban.

Ultimately, the county magistrate moved to deny the proposed regulations. This decision was made to facilitate bringing in an expert who could help draft more specific and nuanced guidelines. As a result, the county's current data center moratorium will stay in place during this period of further deliberation and drafting.