Dollars and data centers: A preview of big meetings in Forsyth County this week

Forsyth County and school leaders are gearing up for a series of critical meetings this week, addressing both ongoing budget challenges and a contentious proposed data center development. On Tuesday night, the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Board of Education is set to receive an update from Superintendent Don Phipps regarding corrective actions taken following last year's $45 million budget crisis and discuss the conservative planning for the 2026-2027 budget amid uncertain state funding. Simultaneously, Forsyth County Manager Shontell Robinson will kick off community update sessions on the county's budget and tax dollar utilization. A key meeting is scheduled for Wednesday in Rural Hall, where residents will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on a proposed data center planned for 129 acres off Bethania Rural Hall Road. Local community members have already raised significant concerns regarding potential pollution, noise, and the prospective impact on local water and gas bills.