Breckinridge County Moves Toward Another Year of Data Center Moratorium

Breckinridge County put data-center development on hold in December 2025 so officials could study how these facilities might affect land use, utilities and local infrastructure. The county is now considering whether to extend that pause for another year.

Data centers house computer systems used to store and process digital information. In the original moratorium ordinance, Fiscal Court pointed to growing interest in data centers across Kentucky and the possibility of such development in Breckinridge County. Officials also warned that the county's existing rules might not adequately address the demands and effects of those facilities.

The ordinance, adopted December 15, 2025, established a 365-day pause on building, developing and operating data centers and data-storage facilities within Fiscal Court's jurisdiction. That time was intended to let officials weigh utility capacity, environmental impacts, potential economic benefits and possible changes to local rules.

The proposed extension received its first reading at an October 29 special meeting held via Zoom, according to WXBC. A second reading and consideration for adoption are scheduled for November 16.

What the court decided

At the October 19 meeting, magistrates supported preparing a 12-month extension, or until a new data-center ordinance is adopted, according to the searchable meeting record and WXBC's report. The meeting index records the vote as unanimous.

The October 29 first reading moved the proposal into the ordinance process. WXBC's report of that special meeting identifies November 16 as the planned second reading and adoption date. K105's October 30 follow-up repeats that timetable and credits WXBC.

What officials said about potential projects

Breck United Executive Director Meredith Dubree said rumors of a data center coming to Breckinridge County were false and that the county lacked the electrical capacity needed for such a project, according to WXBC.

The reported October 19 action concerned the moratorium, not approval of a particular data-center development.

What it means around Rough River Lake

The original ordinance describes a temporary pause, not a permanent ban. The county's website says Breckinridge County does not have countywide planning and zoning, while Cloverport, Hardinsburg and Irvington have their own planning and zoning rules. Property owners should verify which jurisdiction applies to any proposed use.

Other October 19 business

Fiscal Court also approved the county Emergency Operations Plan. Magistrates discussed a drainage tile on Richard Moore Road whose installed design differed from the original specifications and asked officials to seek state approval and clarify reimbursement.

A resident raised ditch-maintenance concerns near a KY 737 access road. Sixth District Magistrate Brandon Henning requested a road-ordinance discussion for November. The October 19 record describes discussion of possible revisions, not adoption of a new road ordinance.

What happens next

The next reported step is the second reading and consideration for adoption on November 16. The final ordinance text and adoption record will determine the extension's effective and expiration dates.

The closing remarks in the searchable meeting transcript announce the next regular meeting for November 16 at 9 a.m. That date matches the county's published third-Monday schedule. Residents should check official notices for changes before attending.