Bristol Virginia Council Considers Ordinance Requiring Permits for Data Centers
The Bristol Virginia City Council is considering an ordinance that would require data centers to obtain special use permits before building in the city. This proactive measure comes after residents voiced concerns about potential impacts like water use and local control. A public hearing was held, with a second reading scheduled for Sept. 8.
The Bristol Virginia City Council is considering a new ordinance that would mandate special use permits for data centers seeking to build within the city limits. The council held a public hearing and the first reading of the proposed ordinance this week, with a second reading scheduled for September 8.
Vice Mayor Neal Osborne clarified that no companies are currently pursuing data center projects in Bristol, describing the ordinance as a proactive measure to potentially deter future development. Residents in the Tri-Cities area have expressed concerns regarding data centers' potential impact on local resources, particularly water usage, and the importance of local control over large-scale developments.
Resident Madison McConnell voiced worries about data centers straining water resources, drawing parallels to the area's historical exploitation by the coal industry. Mike Jarvis emphasized that decisions on such projects should be made by local residents who would be directly affected.
Kevin Pelorus commended city leaders for proactively considering restrictions before any specific proposals emerge, stating that the public has made its opposition clear. If approved, the ordinance would introduce an additional review process for any future data center proposals in Bristol.