Mercer County, Kentucky, faces resident opposition to data center development
Kentucky residents, particularly in Mercer County, are expressing strong opposition to the proliferation of data centers, citing concerns over environmental impact, job creation, and lack of transparency. Congressman Andy Barr is criticized for securing federal funding for a hyperscale data center in Mercer County and his ties to the tech industry. Local officials in Burgin have cancelled meetings to discuss a related annexation ordinance amidst calls for a moratorium.
Kentucky is experiencing a rapid expansion of data centers, with 40 already built or planned, often without significant public awareness or consultation. Critics highlight negative impacts such as minimal job creation, high water and electricity consumption, and increased noise and air pollution from diesel exhaust, which can negatively affect property values and public health.
Congressman Andy Barr is a central figure in this debate, having secured $2 million in federal funding for a hyperscale data center at the Bluegrass Innovation Gateway in Mercer County. Barr, who has received substantial campaign contributions from the tech industry, frames these developments as economic opportunities for Central Kentucky, despite concerns about environmental strain and the true number of permanent jobs created. He also supports expanded coal production to power these facilities.
Mercer County residents and the nonprofit We Are Mercer County are actively opposing these developments, advocating for a moratorium on data center construction. The Burgin City Council, adjacent to a proposed data center, has twice cancelled special meetings intended to discuss an ordinance for the annexation of property related to the center, citing safety concerns. This has fueled suspicion among residents who perceive a lack of transparency from local officials and a potential delay in decisions until after upcoming elections.