Data center decision awaited as judge reviews lawsuit
A judge is reviewing a lawsuit filed by Franklin Citizens for Responsible Development to overturn the Franklin Planning & Zoning Commission's approval of a preliminary development plan for a data center proposed by TenKey LandCo. The lawsuit raises concerns about zoning, environmental impact, and water resources. Separately, TenKey LandCo has also filed a lawsuit against Simpson County Fiscal Court regarding the county's regulatory authority over the project.
Judge Mark A. Thurmond of the 49th Judicial Circuit heard oral arguments in a lawsuit filed by Franklin Citizens for Responsible Development against TenKey LandCo and the City of Franklin Planning & Zoning Commission. The citizens' group seeks a declaratory judgment to reverse the P&Z's March 3 approval of a preliminary development plan for a 200-acre, three-facility data center near Exit 2 off Interstate 65 in Franklin.
The lawsuit, filed on April 2, highlights concerns over zoning restrictions, the environmental impact of on-site power generation, and potential strain on local water resources. Community members are awaiting a final ruling from Judge Thurmond, expected on August 24. TenKey LandCo states its proposed data center would create high-paying jobs and generate substantial tax revenue, utilizing closed-loop cooling technology.
This is one of two lawsuits related to the project. TenKey LandCo filed a separate lawsuit in January against the Simpson County Fiscal Court. This case, with oral arguments scheduled for August 6, seeks a declaratory judgment on the interpretation of laws applicable to the project, specifically challenging the county's authority to impose conditional uses on developments within Franklin city limits given the existing municipal planning authority. Simpson County officials maintain broad countywide jurisdiction for planning and zoning.