Amherst County leaders looking to make data centers special use and not by right

Amherst County, Virginia, leaders are moving to reclassify data centers as a "special use" rather than a "by-right" use on manufacturing-zoned land, a move designed to give the county more control over their development. During a recent meeting, the Amherst County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to instruct the planning commission to draft an ordinance by August. This change would require data center developers to obtain a special use permit, preventing them from automatically building on land zoned for manufacturing.

The decision follows weeks of public concern, particularly among residents of Madison Heights, who expressed apprehension after a parcel of land on Kings Road was cleared, leading to speculation about a forthcoming data center. Economic Development Authority of Amherst County confirmed they owned and marketed the land for purchase and that it was zoned for manufacturing, but clarified that no formal plans had been submitted by any company.

Chairman Tom Martin highlighted the "unknowns" associated with data centers as the reason for supporting the special use permit requirement. Residents, including Barbara Prior and Samantha Salvi, voiced environmental worries about water, air, and soil, and questioned the local benefits of rapid data center proliferation. Some residents also reported receiving unsolicited text messages promoting data center benefits, which fueled their unease. Despite approaching companies, the county has confirmed no proposals are currently on the table. The board hopes the planning commission will swiftly advance the ordinance.