Officials present options for changing zoning ordinance process
Warren County officials are considering changes to their zoning ordinance amendment process, prompted by community opposition to a recently withdrawn data center application. The Board of Supervisors has directed staff to draft options that could limit who can propose zoning changes, shifting more control to the county. This aims to address concerns raised by the "data-center fallout" and potential political implications of current processes.
Warren County officials are actively exploring revisions to the county's Zoning Ordinance amendment process, a move directly spurred by recent "data-center fallout" and significant community opposition. The Board of Supervisors voted to direct Planning Department staff to develop proposed options that would alter how amendments to the zoning ordinance are initiated, with the goal of potentially limiting private-property owner-driven requests.
Planning Director Kelly Wahl presented options to the Board, noting that other jurisdictions like Prince William County restrict text amendments to the board and planning commission, while Loudoun County permits private landowners to petition. The discussion arose after Rushmark Rockland Road LLC recently withdrew its application for a zoning text amendment to allow data centers as a permitted use in industrial zones, a proposal that had provoked substantial community outcry.
Supervisors debated the merits of the proposed changes. Vice Chairman Tony F. Carter, Chairwoman Cheryl L. Cullers, and supervisors Hugh B. Henry, Richard A. Jamieson, and John W. Stanmeyer voted to advance the resolution. Supervisor Henry expressed reservations about changing the current method, advocating for property owners' rights to initiate zoning text amendments for their land. He highlighted concerns about potential political influence if a supervisor were required to sponsor every proposed amendment. Jamieson clarified that such an ordinance would not remove an owner's right to apply for property-specific rezoning, which can include proffers like cash contributions and road improvements, benefits not associated with zoning text amendments.
Removing private owner-driven requests could give the Board or Planning Commission more countywide control over initiating amendments and allow them to screen proposals. However, Wahl cautioned that the county might miss out on useful proposals and would incur the cost of the process.