Franklin County residents demand transparency over data center
Residents in Franklin County, Virginia, are demanding transparency from local officials regarding potential zoning changes that could facilitate a proposed data center project. Concerns center around a lack of public information, environmental impacts such as water usage, and the preservation of the county's rural character. The Board of Supervisors is addressing public outcry while defending the need for closed-door business discussions.
Residents of Franklin County, Virginia, are expressing significant concern and demanding transparency from their Board of Supervisors regarding a proposed data center development. Danae Crosby, among other citizens, voiced frustration after a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, citing a lack of information and feeling unheard by elected officials.
The core of the issue revolves around potential zoning changes that could pave the way for a large-scale data center, known as "Project Flash." Laura Carter, another concerned resident, presented documents obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request, including emails, a letter of intent, and mutual confidentiality agreements related to the project and potential sites like Summit View Business Park. These documents suggest discussions dating back to 2025, with an April email from Economic Development Director Daniel Post indicating an update for the board. Residents claim they have had to uncover information independently, as officials have been evasive.
Key fears among residents include the potential for the data center to permanently alter the county's rural character. Additionally, there are concerns about water usage, specifically regarding Smith Mountain Lake. However, Board of Supervisors member Dan Quinn stated that many concerns are based on misinformation, clarifying that water for such a project would come from a reservoir used by the Western Virginia Water Authority, not directly from Smith Mountain Lake. Quinn defended the necessity of closed-session meetings for discussing prospective business arrangements and commercial terms with companies, though he did not verify specific discussions about a data center. He acknowledged that county leaders need to better understand the potential impacts of the project.