Oldham County Planning Commission approves new zoning for data centers

The Oldham County Study Review Committee convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss significant zoning changes that could impact the community's development landscape. A key focus of the meeting was the proposed zoning regulations for data centers, which are increasingly relevant as technology continues to evolve.

The committee discussed the inclusion of C4 zoning districts as permissible locations for smaller data centers, specifically those ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 square feet. This decision comes after community feedback highlighted potential benefits of allowing such facilities, particularly when they could serve ancillary functions for local hospitals. The committee acknowledged that while there is limited C4 zoning in Oldham County, this change could facilitate the growth of technology-related infrastructure in the area.

Importantly, any development plan for these data centers will require approval from the Oldham County Planning Commission. This process will ensure that all necessary impact studies are conducted, addressing community concerns about the implications of new developments. The committee opted not to involve the legislative body in the initial approval process, believing it could complicate matters unnecessarily, especially since the land is already zoned appropriately for such uses.

The discussions also touched on the need for transparency and public input, with some committee members expressing a desire for elected officials to be involved in the conversation due to the controversial nature of data centers. However, the current plan allows for public input through the zoning map amendment process, which would still provide opportunities for community feedback.

As Oldham County navigates these zoning changes, the committee aims to balance development needs with community interests, ensuring that any new projects align with the county's growth objectives while addressing residents' concerns. The next steps will involve further discussions on the development plans and potential adjustments based on community feedback.