Amended data center zoning rules now heading to Murray City Council for consideration
Murray's Planning Commission has unanimously recommended a proposed ordinance that introduces new zoning regulations for future data centers. The ordinance, which includes stricter setbacks and annual conditional use permit renewals, will now proceed to the Murray City Council for consideration. This development follows a one-week moratorium enacted by the City Council to allow the Planning Commission to finalize its recommendations.
Murray's Planning Commission has unanimously recommended a proposed ordinance introducing new zoning regulations for future data centers. This decision came after a public hearing where community members provided feedback, influencing modifications to the draft ordinance. Key changes include increasing wetland setbacks from 50 to 300 feet, requiring annual renewal of conditional use permits for data center companies, and mandating updated information on decommissioning costs and power usage during the renewal process.
Murray Mayor Bob Rogers had requested the Planning Commission to vote on the rules, expressing the city's belief that a data center is not "in the best interest of Murray." To facilitate the Planning Commission's review, Murray's City Council passed a one-week moratorium last week. The City Council is scheduled to hold a special meeting for a first reading of the proposed ordinance.
Separately, the Calloway County Administration/Ordinance Committee discussed its approach to potential data center facilities, with County Attorney Bryan Ernstberger cautioning that an outright ban would likely not be upheld in court, though a carefully drafted county moratorium could be legal. County officials indicated a need for further research on health impacts and power usage before drafting regulations.
While Murray itself has no data centers, Calloway County hosts Soluna's 25-megawatt Project Sophie, which commenced operations in 2021.