Franklin County leaders halt new zoning ordinance proposal amid community backlash

Franklin County, Virginia, leaders have decided to halt the proposed update to the county's zoning ordinance, citing extensive community backlash and the need for more public input. The decision came after a joint meeting between the Franklin County Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission, where numerous families expressed strong opposition to the draft changes. The proposed ordinance included various regulations, such as those for agricultural land, livestock, beekeeping, and the potential impact on data center development, which sparked significant public concern. Planning Commission Chairwoman Sherri Michaell noted that while the current ordinance dates back to 1988 with few amendments, initial efforts to gather public feedback on the new draft were poorly attended. However, public engagement surged following the release of the draft, particularly concerning restrictions on chickens and bees, and broader discussions around data centers, which led to accusations of corruption. The commission acknowledged that the draft was prematurely released under an external timeline from consultant Berkley Group. Consequently, the Planning Commission will now pause the Berkley Group's involvement and develop its own revised draft, aiming for a more collaborative approach with the community. Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Lorie Smith and other supervisors expressed relief at this new direction, emphasizing the importance of thorough review and public participation, without a specific timeline for completion. Residents, while pleased with the decision to table the current proposal, remain vigilant about future developments.