Owensboro Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting - May 19,, 2026

The City of Owensboro Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on May 19, 2026, which included a proclamation recognizing Emergency Medical Services Week and a detailed update on the Fire Department's hazardous materials response capabilities. The meeting featured extensive public commentary focused primarily on opposition to a proposed AI data center and concerns about rezoning for heavy industrial use near residential and recreational areas. Citizens expressed worries about environmental impacts, noise, pollution, and health effects related to the data center and heavy industrial zoning. The board addressed these concerns, with the mayor stating no data center proposals were currently active and emphasizing transparency and community engagement. Additionally, the meeting covered routine city business such as personnel appointments and budgetary updates, but no new contracts or procurement decisions were reported.