Lexington City Council unanimously passes a moratorium on new data center approvals
The Lexington Fayette Urban County Council unanimously passed a moratorium on new data center approvals, pausing permits and zone changes until October 31st. This measure allows the council time to establish more specific guidelines for tech companies. Concerns include potential increases in utility costs for residents and outdated zoning ordinances.
The Lexington Fayette Urban County Council unanimously enacted a moratorium on new data center approvals, pausing permits, development plan acceptances, and zone changes related to data centers until October 31st. This decision, supported by 5th District Representative Liz Sheehan, aims to provide the council with time to develop specific guidelines for technology companies interested in operating in the area.
Mayor Linda Gorton backed the moratorium, citing concerns that data centers do not generate many jobs and have the potential to raise utility costs for local residents. Urban Ecologist Lee Ensnor also urged the public to use this period to get organized and effectively respond to future issues.
This action follows the recent acquisition of the former Lexmark Data Center off New Circle Road by Dart Points Operating Company. Council members acknowledged that their existing zoning ordinances for "computer processing centers" are decades old and no longer adequately address the complexities and impacts of modern data center operations.