First reading to rezone Massie property to I1 draws public praise and calls for data‑center moratorium

The City Commission held first reading of an ordinance to rezone roughly 121.6 acres of the Massie property to I1 (light industrial) after the Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission declined to approve I2 (heavy industrial) by one vote. City staff said the land was acquired for industrial development and described required conditions: compliance with an approved traffic impact study, no direct access to Windle Expressway, connectivity to adjoining properties and other conditions to protect nearby neighborhoods.

City attorney Mark Feifer outlined the statutory process under KRS 100.211 and said the city's decision must be based on evidence presented to the planning commission. He summarized the staff findings supporting I1, including consistency with the comprehensive plan, adequate size for buffers, and sewer access.

Members of the public used the open forum to respond. Kathy Weatherington thanked commissioners for listening to constituents on the Parish Avenue issue. Other speakers raised concerns about non‑disclosure agreements and the possibility of a data center on the site; several urged the city to adopt a moratorium similar to one enacted by the county. "It is the majority of people that say no data center," Diana Friend said, representing public opposition she said she hears in the community. Another resident urged the commission to place a one‑year moratorium to allow public concerns to be addressed.

City staff did not adopt a moratorium at the meeting; Feifer and staff emphasized the planning and statutory process for rezoning and noted that conditions would apply if the commission rezones to I1. The rezoning remains at the first‑reading stage; the commission may consider final action at a later meeting.