Carroll County Officials Discuss Zoning for Data Centers at Joint Meeting
Carroll County, Virginia's Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission held a joint meeting to discuss a new zoning ordinance that would regulate data center development. Citizens expressed concerns about power and water usage, and the board noted the limitations imposed by Virginia's Dillon Rule regarding local government authority. A new zoning ordinance is expected to be proposed soon, potentially by the end of July, to address these concerns.
The Carroll County Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission convened a joint meeting to discuss proposed zoning changes specifically addressing the development of data centers within the county. Vice Chairman Tracy Moore clarified that no zoning ordinance would be voted on that evening, with County Attorney Stephan Durbin outlining the necessary protocols for adopting such an ordinance, including public hearings by both the Planning Commission and the Board.
Citizens voiced concerns regarding the impacts of data centers, solar farms, and battery storage facilities, particularly on land use, neighboring properties, and community resources. County Attorney Durbin emphasized that Virginia is a Dillon Rule state, limiting the county's regulatory authority without explicit General Assembly authorization. He warned that without a zoning ordinance, data centers could be built "by right" anywhere with sufficient power by simply obtaining a building permit for a warehouse. Durbin also highlighted that a proposed ordinance would restrict data centers to specific industrial zones and require a Conditional Use Permit, mandating developers to address issues such as hours of operation, access, water protection, lighting, power, sewer, water supply, and sound limitations.
Supervisor Early referenced Loudoun County's extensive data center development due to its zoning approach, advocating for Carroll County to proactively regulate placement, noise, and resource consumption. Citizen Jennifer Marshall noted an informational session changed her perspective, while Jean Burgaleta questioned power availability, with Durbin stating it's negotiated between AEP and the data center. Steve Scherfel inquired about a moratorium, but Durbin clarified that Virginia law and Supreme Court rulings do not grant local governments authority for land-use moratoriums. Supervisor Early also dismissed green energy as a complete solution for data centers, suggesting small nuclear reactors. The meeting concluded with officials encouraging citizen education and participation in the zoning process.