Simpson County approves amended ordinance regulating data centers amid lawsuit

Simpson County, Kentucky, officials have approved an amended ordinance to update local zoning regulations for data centers and related energy systems. The Simpson County Fiscal Court adopted the measure on May 5, following a second reading and a recommendation from the county’s planning and zoning commission. The ordinance defines "advanced technology centers," including data centers, and designates them as conditional uses in both incorporated and unincorporated areas. This means such developments will require additional review and approval through the planning and zoning process. County Judge-Executive Mason Barnes emphasized the goal is to establish clearer guidelines and safeguards for large-scale technology projects if they are permitted to locate in the county. The approval comes amidst ongoing interest in data center development in Simpson County and while a lawsuit is pending, as indicated in the article's title.