Ohio County court adopts 12-month moratorium on data centers after debate

Ohio County Fiscal Court adopted a 12-month moratorium on data centers on June 9, 2026, after a heated discussion about potential local impacts and the scope of the court’s legal authority.

Commissioner Dale moved for the moratorium, saying the court needed time "to get some information" and to prevent companies from proceeding without court input. During the exchange, Justin (identified in the transcript only by his first name) cautioned that the legal effect of such a moratorium is limited: it can signal that the court "may take action at some point in the future" but does not necessarily stop private activity immediately. Justin also referenced a recent local case and the need to consider ordinance language or other legal vehicles.

Opponents and supporters traded views about economic benefits and community sentiment. One commissioner said data centers can bring jobs but "about five people" per site was suggested in the discussion; another pointed to a larger project in neighboring Hancock County with a higher employment estimate. Judge David Johnston warned the court against creating a reputation of opposing business and urged caution.

The court conducted a roll call vote. As read on the record, the votes were recorded as: Morphew — yes; McKenna — yes; Bulock — yes (said she wanted to review draft language first); Bennett — yes; Johnston — no; Viv — yes. The motion passed and the court recorded that the moratorium would provide a pause for study and potential future ordinance or resolution drafting. The court did not adopt ordinance text at the meeting and did not specify enforcement mechanisms.

Next steps, as discussed on the record, include staff research and consultation with the state auditor's office and neighboring counties to draft enforceable language for a future meeting. The court did not set a specific follow-up date beyond the general direction to study the issue.