The Oldham County Fiscal Court held a special session on June 26, 2025, where community concerns regarding property values and the impact of data centers were prominently discussed. Residents voiced their apprehensions about how the establishment of a large data center could negatively affect their property values and quality of life.
One resident, Chris Sexton, expressed frustration over the lack of consideration for local homeowners during the decision-making process. He highlighted that the proposed data center's operations could lead to significant noise and environmental disturbances, drawing on his extensive experience in the IT sector. Sexton described the operational characteristics of data centers, emphasizing that they require constant uptime and often rely on powerful diesel generators, which can produce excessive noise and heat.
Sexton’s comments underscored a broader concern among residents about the potential disruption caused by the data center, particularly regarding its proximity to residential areas. He pointed out that similar facilities in other regions have been strategically located away from residential neighborhoods to mitigate such impacts.
The meeting reflected a growing tension between economic development initiatives and community welfare, as residents called for more transparency and consideration in the planning stages of such projects. The discussions highlighted the need for local government to balance growth with the interests of existing residents, ensuring that their voices are heard in future decisions.
As the Fiscal Court continues to navigate these complex issues, the implications of this meeting may influence future policies regarding the placement and operation of data centers in Oldham County.