'They want even more protections:' Kentucky lawmaker pushes for data center transparency rules
Kentucky lawmaker Representative Adam Orr is pushing for increased transparency and community input rules for data center developments after residents in Lexington were surprised by the sale and expansion of a former Lexmark data center to DartPoints. Orr highlights the need for more guardrails on public input and environmental protections amidst a data center boom in the state.
This week, residents in Lexington, Kentucky, expressed surprise and concern over the sale of the former Lexmark data center on New Circle Road to DartPoints Operating Company, a Dallas-based firm planning a significant expansion. State Representative Adam Orr of Lexington quickly heard from constituents adjacent to the site who were unaware of the transaction and expansion plans. Orr emphasized that the lack of transparency surrounding such projects is a significant issue.
The property's zoning already permits data centers, and a Kentucky Utility Substation is on-site, factors DartPoints cited in their plans for infrastructure expansion. However, Representative Orr argues that the community should have been involved in the proposal process much earlier, pushing for mandated community input.
Orr, along with other state lawmakers from both parties, believes Kentucky is experiencing a data center boom and needs to establish clearer rules. He is advocating for the General Assembly to implement guardrails, including greater transparency, enhanced public input mechanisms, and more robust environmental protections. Orr stressed that Kentuckians want their elected officials to play a proactive role in setting policy rather than allowing utility companies and large corporations to dictate terms independently.