Data center rules take shape

DANVILLE, Ky. — Danville-Boyle County Planning and Zoning officials have begun laying the groundwork for local regulations governing data centers, including plans for a working group to develop a proposed zoning ordinance amendment.

The discussion came during a special-called meeting Oct. 8, when members reviewed guidance received following conversations with Boyle County officials about how data centers should be addressed in local zoning regulations.

Planning and Zoning members said the county is seeking an amendment that would establish definitions and regulations specifically addressing data center developments. Based on those conversations, county officials appeared interested in restrictive regulations designed to protect residents and were not interested in allowing large-scale, or “hyperscale,” data centers without significant limitations.

Developing the regulations will first require establishing clear definitions for different types and sizes of data centers, which are not currently defined in the local zoning ordinance.

Members agreed to move forward with a working group rather than creating a formally appointed committee. The smaller group would be responsible for developing ideas and drafting potential regulations before bringing recommendations to the full Planning and Zoning Commission for discussion and the required public process.

The group is expected to include Planning and Zoning representatives from both the city and county, with additional volunteers potentially participating. Members discussed keeping participation below a quorum of the full commission.

Commissioners also discussed having the working group periodically present portions of its work during regular Planning and Zoning meetings. That would allow the full commission to provide feedback as the proposal develops while maintaining continuity among those doing the initial drafting.

The goal is to produce proposed regulations that can eventually be considered by the full commission and Boyle County officials.

Members acknowledged that several revisions could be necessary before a final proposal is ready. The possibility of hiring an outside consultant was also discussed, particularly if specialized assistance is needed to develop technical definitions or other portions of the ordinance.

Planning and Zoning has a budget line for consulting services, but members indicated they would first attempt to develop a draft internally before determining whether outside assistance is necessary.

Initial working group meetings are expected to begin in November. Officials discussed preparing an early draft in the coming months to provide time for review and revisions before the proposal moves through the formal public hearing process.

The commission also addressed leadership within the Planning and Zoning office during the special meeting.

Following a closed-session discussion of possible candidates, members unanimously agreed to offer Duane Campbell the interim director position. Under the approved motion, Campbell would work 20 hours per week and receive half of the director’s salary until a permanent director is hired.

The full meeting can be viewed on the City of Danville YouTube page.