Henderson County Planning Commission Recommends Data Center Ordinance
Henderson County's Planning Commission recommended that the fiscal court consider creating an ordinance for data centers, based on a model from the Kentucky Resource Council. The proposed ordinance would include increased setbacks, decreased noise limits, new public notice steps, and address water usage. Local residents expressed some opposition due to limited knowledge and concerns about land availability.
During a fiscal court meeting, the Henderson County Planning Commission recommended that the court members consider establishing an ordinance specifically for data centers. Executive Director Bryan Bishop explained that such an ordinance would ensure parameters are already in place if data center proposals emerge. The commission's proposal was based on a model ordinance developed by the Kentucky Resource Council, a statewide environmental law and advocacy organization.
The proposed ordinance strengthens existing guidelines by increasing setbacks, decreasing noise limits, and adding new public notice requirements. It also includes language specifying that a permit would expire after one year if no action is taken. Discussions also covered distances from residential areas and water usage.
Local residents expressed varied sentiments, with some indicating they are against the centers due to limited knowledge on the topic and concerns about land availability within the county.