Concern over proposed Franklin County zoning ordinance

Residents of Franklin County, Virginia, are voicing significant concerns regarding a comprehensive 400-page rewrite of the county's zoning ordinance. The proposed changes, currently in draft form, are stirring debate over various issues, including potential impacts on agricultural practices and the perceived overreach of local government into private property rights. Ed Saunders, a resident of Ferrum, expressed apprehension that certain language in the ordinance could inadvertently pave the way for a data center at the Summit View Business Park, potentially bypassing public feedback due to existing by-right zoning. He highlighted proposed rules that would ban data centers from using private wells and impose strict noise limits on cooling fans, which he fears are designed to attract rather than deter such facilities. Franklin County Board of Supervisors Chair Lorrie Smith confirmed that data centers are already a by-right use at Summit View Business Park and asserted that the new ordinance does not alter this status. Smith indicated a readiness to welcome prospective data center activities, noting the shifting focus of data center development from Northern Virginia to Southwest Virginia. In addition to data center concerns, the draft ordinance introduces new restrictions on residential livestock, such as chickens and bees, requiring minimum property sizes and setback distances. Christine Sizemore of Boones Mill, who plans to raise small livestock, criticized these regulations for potentially forcing private citizens to become businesses to sell products and for limiting flexibility in land use. Other controversial aspects include new regulations for short-term rentals, requiring hosts to register and notify neighbors, and stricter rules on living in RVs or other accessory dwellings on residential properties. Supervisors, including Union Hall District Supervisor Dan Quinn, acknowledge the need to modernize the 1988 ordinance, which has become a "patchwork" of changes. Quinn, a beekeeper himself, supports the need for some regulation to mediate neighbor disputes but seeks modifications to the current draft, particularly regarding the impact on farmers selling land. The Board of Supervisors has not collectively discussed the draft, and Chair Smith encourages residents to provide feedback as a final vote is anticipated in July or August, emphasizing the importance of this "generational document."