Court reconvenes as Judge weighs key motions in Simpson County data center lawsuit

The Simpson Circuit Court is expected to deliver key rulings in the coming weeks concerning a lawsuit over a proposed data center in Simpson County, Kentucky. The lawsuit, filed by developer TenKey LandCo I, LLC, challenges the Simpson County Fiscal Court's authority to enforce a data center regulating ordinance within the City of Franklin. During a recent status hearing, Judge Mark A. Thurmond indicated he would soon rule on TenKey's motion to disqualify the county's legal counsel, alleging prior representation of the company in an unrelated matter. The county's attorneys dispute this claim. A separate motion from Simpson County to stay the case is also pending. TenKey attorney Gregory Dutton emphasized the company's desire to move beyond procedural issues to address the core legal question of the county's regulatory power. Simpson County Judge-Executive Mason Barnes stated the county is awaiting the court's decision, expressing confidence in their current legal team. Barnes clarified the county's stance is not against the data center, but rather to ensure proper safeguards and regulations are in place if it proceeds. The broader dispute centers on whether the data center must comply with county requirements like obtaining a conditional use permit. The next status hearing is set for May 4.