Residents push back as N.C. county reboots process for data center plan

The Stokes County Board of Commissioners has nullified a January rezoning decision that would have allowed a data center project on nearly 2,000 acres near Walnut Cove, North Carolina. This action effectively resets the approval process after county officials determined the original public notice did not comply with state law, making the previous approvals invalid. The board adopted a resolution to void the rezoning and related changes. The reversal follows a lawsuit filed by 13 residents and four local nonprofit groups seeking to block the project, alleging county leaders failed to follow proper procedures and held private discussions with the developer. Residents like Tim Mabe and Dianne Coffill expressed encouragement over the board's decision, though some remain wary of future attempts to fast-track the project. Opposition has been visible, with concerns raised about potential environmental impacts on air and water quality, electricity demand, and noise. Engineered Land Solutions, the project's developer, stated its commitment to being a "strong, trusted partner in Stokes County," projecting $20 million in annual tax revenue and up to 500 jobs. With the zoning approval voided, any new data center proposal will require a complete re-submission and a new review process adhering to public notice and hearing requirements. Meanwhile, the original lawsuit remains pending, with plaintiffs seeking to overturn the county's initial decision entirely.