Amherst County Board votes to require special use permits for future data centers
The Amherst County Board of Supervisors voted 3-2 to mandate special use permits for all future data center developments in the county. This decision allows greater county control over data center placement and provides a public comment period for residents. The vote followed extensive public input, with many residents expressing concerns about data centers.
The Amherst County Board of Supervisors recently voted 3-2 to implement a new requirement for future data center projects within the county. Under the new ordinance, all data centers will now need to obtain a special use permit, a change that grants the county greater oversight regarding their location and provides a formal avenue for public engagement before final decisions are made.
The decision came after an extensive public comment period lasting over 90 minutes, during which more than 30 residents voiced their opinions. While some speakers supported the potential for job creation and economic benefits, a significant portion expressed strong concerns about data centers' impact on their neighborhoods, urging the board to be "fiercely selective" about industries invited into the area. One resident noted, "Data centers may be inevitable, but they don't all have to be built in Virginia."
During the meeting, Supervisor Claudia Tucker revealed that the county had already received a data center application. She also stated that the applicant indicated they would not proceed with their project if a special use permit were required, a revelation that elicited a positive reaction from the audience.
County Attorney Mark Popovich advised the board against tabling the decision without a set time limit, as any application submitted under existing rules would be considered "by-right," bypassing the special permit requirement. Ultimately, Supervisor David Pugh's motion to approve the ordinance passed, with Supervisors Tucker and Chris Adams casting dissenting votes.