Wythe County hears community input on zoning laws as data center concerns grow

Wythe County, Virginia, one of the few counties in the state without established zoning laws, is making its third attempt in several decades to adopt a countywide zoning ordinance. This latest effort, driven by increasing concerns over data center and solar developments, appears to have bipartisan support, according to local officials. The previous attempt around 2002 failed to gain significant traction, but the current initiative began approximately three years ago when the planning commission and Board of Supervisors tasked staff with developing an ordinance, initially in response to solar projects. Now, the focus has shifted to data centers, with the county already having one planned for Progress Park. County administrators suggest these developments are necessary for diversifying and ensuring a stable local economy. Despite the economic benefits, county leaders are taking a cautious approach, prioritizing community input from residents before rushing the implementation of new land use regulations. There are concerns that other major industries could proceed with development in the interim, as existing projects would not be halted while the new laws are being formulated, provided they meet current permitting requirements under the Code of Virginia.