Central Kentucky county implements data center ban to preserve farmland
Woodford County, Kentucky, has enacted a permanent countywide ban on data center development to preserve its farmland and rural character. This decision follows concerns from residents regarding environmental impact, water, and power usage. The ban makes Woodford County the first in Kentucky to implement such a prohibition.
Woodford County, Kentucky, has implemented a permanent, countywide ban on new data center development, a decision driven by officials' commitment to preserving the area's rural character and protecting farmland. The ban, approved by the Woodford County Fiscal Court in collaboration with the local governments of Midway and Versailles, makes it the only county in Kentucky to enact such a prohibition.
Woodford County Judge-Executive James Kay stated the move reflects a dedication to maintaining the community's "irreplaceable farmland" and "pristine waterways" for future generations, explicitly rejecting data centers as a compromise to the county's farming foundation. The decision comes amidst growing controversy in Kentucky communities over the environmental impact, significant water and power consumption, and the costs associated with these facilities, even as state lawmakers consider rolling back incentives for developers.
Though no data center proposals were pending directly in Woodford County, nearby Mercer County has one, and Fayette County is considering an expansion. The permanent ban follows earlier actions in June, where the Fiscal Court directed the drafting of prohibitory legislation and the Versailles City Council unanimously approved a data center moratorium until December 31, similar to a measure taken by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council.