Google’s Chesterfield data centers arrive amid shifting opinions on the facilities
Google held an open house in Chesterfield County, Virginia, for residents to address concerns about its three planned data center campuses. While initial rezoning passed with little opposition, community concern has grown due to soaring energy bills and drought conditions, leading to organized opposition. Chesterfield County supervisors have indicated they will not approve any more data center projects beyond Google's current campuses.
Google hosted an open house at Cosby High School in Chesterfield County, Virginia, to address resident concerns regarding three planned data center campuses. The event, also held at Brightpoint Community College, saw company representatives answer questions on water, electricity, community impact, design, and noise pollution for approximately 300 attendees.
Public sentiment has shifted significantly since the project's initial rezoning approval last May, with data centers becoming a divisive topic due to rising energy costs and drought. Matoaca District Supervisor Kevin Carroll and Clover Hill District Supervisor Jessica Schneider noted increased local and national concern. A recent VCU poll indicated 81% of voters support additional fees for data centers to offset electricity demand.
Despite acknowledging the tax revenue benefits, Supervisors Carroll and Schneider stated that Google's three campuses would be the last data center projects approved under the current county board. Opposition group Data Center Defiance Central Virginia was present, expressing concerns about environmental impacts, noise, light, and water/electricity costs. Member Courtney Bernhardt criticized the county for making decisions under a non-disclosure agreement with Google, limiting public input.
Google representatives, including Clay Allsop from public affairs and Strategic Negotiator Cathie Vick, emphasized the company's commitment to being a community partner and providing information. Vick confirmed that the projects have nearly all necessary approvals, with construction on "Project Peanut" already underway, making it unlikely for the company to back away. Any future changes are expected to be primarily aesthetic.