Lexington council extends data center moratorium
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted unanimously to extend the city’s data center moratorium through Oct. 31, 2027, blocking officials from reviewing plans, approving zoning changes or issuing permits for data centers. Residents cited energy use, air quality and environmental concerns, while council members also considered new data center zoning and regulatory proposals.
The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted 11-0 to extend the city’s moratorium on data center development through Oct. 31, 2027. The extension prevents the city from accepting or reviewing development plans, approving zoning changes or issuing permits for data centers.
The vote followed public comments from residents who urged stronger restrictions, citing energy consumption, air quality and environmental impacts. Council Member Emma Curtis supported addressing those concerns, including those related to Dart Points’ proposed data center at the Lexmark site. Separate proposals to create a data center zoning category and strengthen regulatory language did not advance, though both are scheduled to return for second readings on Oct. 22.