Council holds first reading of data center rules

The Murray City Council took a significant step towards regulating data centers during a special-called meeting, holding the first reading of a proposed ordinance. This new measure aims to establish standards for data center facilities and includes a temporary halt on accepting new applications while the ordinance is under consideration. Mayor Bob Rogers noted that no data center has been formally proposed for Murray, but the council is proceeding with preventative regulation.

The meeting, which lasted less than seven minutes, involved no discussion or public comments as it was a first reading without a vote. This action follows the council's June 11 decision to implement a one-week moratorium on data center applications, allowing the Planning Commission to review and recommend an amended proposal. The Planning Commission's revised draft, which now explicitly states that no applications or permits will be accepted during the ordinance's consideration, was presented to the council.

Residents are encouraged to review the draft ordinance before a public hearing scheduled for 6 p.m. on July 16. The proposed ordinance seeks to amend the city's zoning rules by creating a new section for data centers and modifying relevant definitions and use classifications. The initiative was prompted by a model ordinance from the Kentucky Resources Council. Public concerns, including noise, water consumption, and environmental impacts, were previously voiced at a June 9 Planning Commission hearing, leading the council to direct revisions. These revisions include stronger environmental protections, annual conditional use permit reviews, and new reporting requirements for electrical and water usage.