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Ripley County imposes moratorium on data centers and battery storage while zoning is updated
Summary
Commissioners announced an immediate moratorium on accepting new applications for data centers and battery storage; planning and zoning will draft ordinance updates with public hearings over the next year.
Chair told the room that Ripley County has enacted a moratorium effective last Friday on acceptance of new applications for data centers and battery storage while staff update the county's solar and related ordinances. "So what the moratorium means is that Ripley County will not be will not accept any applications for data centers until that effective date," the Chair said.
Commissioners instructed the planning and zoning director to lead the ordinance update process and to schedule public meetings for community input before any changes are voted on. Staff clarified that existing solar ordinance language may be amended (for example adjusting setbacks) and that battery storage provisions will be inserted or otherwise addressed during the update.
The board noted the moratorium provides a one-year window for planning and zoning to prepare draft rules; the county will publicize hearings and provide a clear point of contact for residents and applicants who want to track progress or comment during the draft stage.
