Goochland leadership, residents to settle on documents in TOD lawsuit
Goochland County residents are suing county officials over the approval of a Technology Overlay District (TOD) and Technology Zone (TZ) intended for data center development. A circuit court judge will decide which documents can be included in the ongoing trial. Residents argue the county did not lawfully explain the terms, while the county asserts it properly advertised the plan.
Four Goochland County residents have filed a lawsuit against county officials concerning the approval of a Technology Overlay District (TOD) and Technology Zone (TZ), which are designated for data center development. The residents contend that county leadership failed to lawfully and correctly explain the terms of these approved zones.
Today, both parties are scheduled to appear before a circuit court judge to determine which of the thousands of documents filed by the county will be admissible as the case progresses. The county submitted approximately 8,500 pages, asserting that it properly advertised the plan, consulted experts, and conducted thorough research before approving the policy. Goochland County Administrator Raley stated his respect for the residents' right to challenge the decision but affirmed the Board of Supervisors' unanimous 4-1 vote in favor of the TOD, noting the board has appropriated $250,000 for the litigation. He also mentioned that while the lawsuit has not deterred developers from applying, no applications have been received for the area yet.
Plaintiffs, including one identified as Haas, indicated that today's hearing is focused solely on the necessity of the county's proposed documents for the case. They seek for county leaders to revise the development rules. The outcome of the hearing will determine the scope of evidence for the trial and whether the lawsuit itself can continue.