Data center developer sues Simpson County government over land use ordinance

A data center developer, TenKey LandCo, has sued Simpson County, Kentucky over a new ordinance requiring data centers to obtain a conditional use permit. The ordinance, led by Simpson County Judge-Executive Mason Barnes, aims to mitigate potential negative impacts of data centers on the community. TenKey argues the county cannot impose zoning rules within the city of Franklin, where the proposed $5 billion data center would be located. The project has faced fierce opposition from local residents and officials concerned about issues like pollution and lack of transparency around the anonymous end user. Judge-Executive Barnes has criticized the developer's conflicting information and unwillingness to be transparent. Despite the lawsuit, the Franklin Planning and Zoning Commission has tabled a vote on TenKey's preliminary development plan.