Planning commission forwards data-center zoning rules with amendments after hours of testimony

The Oldham County Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend adoption of a new zoning text amendment creating Section 250-340 (data centers) after hours of staff presentation, expert input and public comment.

Ryan Fisher, director of Oldham County Planning, opened the staff presentation and described the draft regulations as intended to define and control data centers "to minimize their impact on surrounding properties, ensure compatibility and promote sustainable development." Fisher said the draft addresses permitted zones, building design, equipment setbacks, screening, generator standards and testing, cooling and water use, impact studies, and notification procedures. He described a multi-month study review and task-force process that included meetings in April, May, June and additional task force meetings over the summer.

Key provisions in the draft included: limiting data centers by right to the C-4, I-1, I-2 and IPD districts; requiring a 1,000-foot equipment setback from adjoining residentially zoned or residentially used properties; building aesthetics and facade treatment to reduce the industrial appearance; placement and screening of ground-mounted equipment; sound attenuation and minimum screening heights (a minimum 10-foot sound-damping barrier or 2 feet above generator height, whichever is greater); restrictions on generator use to emergency/backup only (testing limited to no more than once per week and restricted hours); requirement that liquid cooling use closed-loop systems and that water for cooling come from municipal sources; and neighborhood meeting and 500-foot mailed-notice requirements prior to filing an application.

Oldham County staff and consultants clarified technical points. A staff…