Fayette Co. commissioners approve temporary data center moratorium
The Fayette County Board of Commissioners in Ohio approved a temporary eight-month data center moratorium, following a public meeting and after hearing citizen objections. The moratorium, running through June 1, 2027, will prevent county officials from processing applications or permits for data centers in seven unincorporated townships. This pause is intended to allow officials to assess and determine recommendations for data center regulation.
The Fayette County Board of Commissioners held a public meeting in Washington Court House, Ohio, to discuss a proposed data center moratorium. Board Chairman Jim Garland set ground rules for public comment, allowing 30 minutes total for speakers.
Fayette County Zoning Officer Justin Hagler explained the rezoning and amendment process, noting that no applications for farmland rezoning or data centers had been submitted. Dan Drake, a Paint Township resident, presented resolutions from several townships supporting a moratorium. Commissioner Donnie Fleak, initially opposed, changed his stance after public feedback and moved to approve an eight-month and 10-day data center restriction, effective through June 1, 2027.
Fayette County Prosecutor Jess Weade was tasked with drafting the measure, which later covered seven unincorporated townships, excluding those with independent zoning codes. The moratorium, dated September 21, 2026, through June 1, 2027, prevents county officials from processing data center applications, reviews, zoning approvals, or permits in the affected areas. It aims to allow officials to assess and develop recommendations for data center regulation, with a comprehensive Fayette County Land Use Plan expected in mid-2027.