Boone County approves one-year moratorium on data-center development

Boone County commissioners voted unanimously on June 15 to impose a one-year moratorium on development of data centers, saying the pause will allow staff and the Area Plan Commission (APC) time to draft zoning ordinance language specific to data centers.

The moratorium was introduced after APC hearings beginning in May and a public hearing in June, during which several constituents called for the temporary ban. Commissioners said the moratorium will give the county “the opportunity to look at amendments to the zoning ordinance to address data centers that it does not currently handle.” The motion carried by roll call vote.

A resident who spoke during public comment, Lesie Hine, described living about a half-mile from construction activity she said has produced “24‑hour construction noise, stadium lights, and constant traffic,” and urged the commissioners to consult directly with residents when drafting the ordinance. “When you go back to the table and you discuss this moratorium … remember us, come to us, ask us questions,” Hine said.

Commissioners framed the moratorium as a pause to evaluate ordinance language and public‑money disclosure requirements raised earlier in APC discussions; staff will return with proposed amendments and, where appropriate, additional public outreach. No implementation timeline or specific amendment language was given at the meeting.

What happens next: the moratorium creates a one‑year window for staff and APC to draft and review ordinance changes related to data centers; commissioners said they will continue public engagement as the amendments are developed.