Land Use Committee takes shape as Barren County continues zoning discussions
Barren County, Kentucky, has finalized the appointments to its Land Use Committee, which will draft a countywide zoning ordinance. The initiative follows increased discussions prompted by recent solar energy and data center developments. Public input is actively being sought through town hall meetings and a drop box before a potential vote on the ordinance later this year.
Barren County, Kentucky, has officially appointed the final citizen members to its Land Use Committee, moving forward with the potential adoption of a countywide zoning ordinance. The unanimous decision by Barren County magistrates on August 4, 2026, completed the committee's formation, which now includes two magistrates, five citizen representatives, and three members from the Joint City-County Planning Commission.
Barren County Judge/Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd highlighted that the citizen members were selected for their diverse viewpoints and countywide representation, many with connections to agriculture. Magistrate Marty Kinslow also noted the importance of varied opinions on the committee, which is tasked with drafting the language for the zoning ordinance.
The discussions around countywide land use regulations have gained momentum due to recent developments involving solar energy and data centers in Barren County. The proposed ordinance would apply to all unincorporated areas, as cities like Park City, Cave City, and Glasgow already have their own zoning. Kevin Myatt, Director of the Joint City-County Planning Commission, described the ordinance as a "breathing, living document" subject to annual reviews.
Officials are encouraging public participation through ongoing town hall meetings and a feedback drop box outside the county judge-executive's office. Two final town hall meetings are scheduled for August 10 and August 13. The committee's drafted ordinance could be put to a vote later this year, with all public feedback considered.