City commission candidates split on data center restrictions at forum
Candidates at a Bowling Green city commission forum were divided over whether the city should have imposed a moratorium on data center development. Opponents cited limited research, potential impacts on the area’s karst geology and water supply, while supporters of existing rules said the commission had already adopted strict restrictions.
Bowling Green city commission candidates debated data center policy at a forum ahead of the election. Incumbent Melinda Hill defended her vote against a proposed moratorium, saying the commission had unanimously adopted strict rules for data centers. Candidate Sue Parrigan also supported the ordinance, arguing that enforceable rules were more effective than a temporary pause.
Incumbent Carlos Bailey, candidate Thomas Morris and incumbent Dana Beasley Brown supported a moratorium to allow outside experts and residents to evaluate potential impacts. Bailey and Brown cited unanswered questions about the region’s karst topography and water use, particularly following a prolonged drought. Attendees expressed strong interest in the issue, with some saying they opposed data centers, but no specific company or project was identified.