Boyle County enacts moratorium on data center applications through June 2027

Boyle County Fiscal Court members voted May 26 to impose a moratorium on applications for data centers within the county through June 2027, citing concerns about utilities, water use and potential long‑term fiscal impacts.

Magistrates said they want time to work with planning and zoning to draft zoning language and review technical testimony from neighboring counties. One magistrate warned of health and utility risks and said the court should include health impacts in its rationale.

"The use of water is incredible," a magistrate said during debate, and others raised concerns about escalating utility rates and the limits of county control once long‑term agreements are in place. The motion passed by voice vote.

Officials also scheduled a June 4 workshop with planning and zoning to review data center issues and to develop proposed ordinance language.

The moratorium applies to county jurisdiction; speakers clarified it does not include properties inside Danville city limits, which have separate authority. The court said it can extend or shorten the moratorium as needed after the planning workshop.

Next steps: planning and zoning will hold the June 4 workshop to draft recommended language; the court will consider formal zoning changes at subsequent meetings.