Prince William supervisors backtrack on data center noise ordinance
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors revived consideration of a stricter data center noise ordinance after residents complained that the county's current rules have produced no violations. The board directed county staff to present the original proposal and prepare for a future public hearing and vote.
Prince William County supervisors are reconsidering a stricter noise ordinance for data centers after residents near Amazon and Google facilities reported persistent nighttime humming. The existing ordinance, adopted in a compromise last year, has resulted in no data center noise violations despite 19 complaints reviewed by county staff.
Supervisors Yesli Vega, Deshundra Jefferson and George Stewart supported revisiting the stronger proposal developed by residents, county officials and noise consultants. The board directed staff to present the original ordinance on Nov. 17, after which supervisors will determine when to hold a public hearing and vote. County Attorney Michelle Robl said the county must consult with prosecutors and police because violations would be criminal offenses under Virginia law.