Proposed zoning rewrite sparks data center questions in Franklin County
News ClipWDBJ7·Franklin County, VA·5/6/2026
Franklin County, Virginia, is considering a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning ordinance, which includes new rules that would impact potential data center development, such as restricting private well usage and limiting noise. Community members are expressing concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the origins and intentions behind these changes. County supervisors are expected to vote on the final ordinance in July or August.
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Gov: Franklin County Board of Supervisors, Franklin County
Franklin County, Virginia, is currently reviewing a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning ordinance, a 400-plus-page document that includes provisions impacting the future development of data centers. Christine Sizemore of the Franklin County Community Coalition voiced concerns that the proposed changes could facilitate data center construction in the county, emphasizing a perceived lack of public discussion regarding the plan's origins and beneficiaries.
Under the draft ordinance, future data centers would be prohibited from using private wells, subject to stricter noise limits for cooling systems, and confined to specific designated zones. Franklin County Board of Supervisors member Mike Meredith denied claims that the rewrite is solely aimed at attracting a data center, stating it aims to provide proper protections for citizens for any potential development. He clarified that the current ordinance doesn't exclude data centers, but the rewrite would regulate their location. Sizemore's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request revealed an email suggesting the county is indeed exploring data center recruitment, though Meredith indicated he has not seen active public advertising.
County supervisors anticipate voting on the final version of the zoning ordinance sometime in July or August.