Supervisors to seek outside attorney before data-center hearing

The Warren County Board of Supervisors is preparing for a public hearing on August 18 regarding proposed changes to the county's zoning ordinance that, if approved, would permit data centers in industrial districts. The board voted 5-0 to advertise the hearing, which is anticipated to draw high attendance and speakers, necessitating a larger venue such as a public school.

Supervisor John W. Stanmeyer initially moved to postpone the advertisement, advocating for the board to first meet with the same private attorney who advised the Front Royal Town Council on data center prohibitions. Stanmeyer emphasized the public's passionate engagement and competing ideas on the issue, noting that constituents have been lobbying both county and town governing bodies with similar concerns. Despite scheduling conflicts, his motion was amended to authorize the advertisement with the caveat that supervisors attempt to meet with the outside counsel.

Front Royal Vice Mayor Amber F. Veitenthal confirmed that her council received legal advice from outside counsel before denying a proposed zoning amendment that would have allowed data centers in an industrial zone with performance standards. That motion passed 6-0 after a public hearing where numerous residents spoke against the change. Front Royal's Planning Commission is now set to hold a hearing on a proposed ordinance specifically prohibiting data centers.

In Warren County, a proposed code change allowing data centers, filed by Dan Doty on behalf of property owner Rushmark Rockland Road LLC, was recently reviewed by the county Planning Commission. The commission, after its public hearing, recommended by a 4-0 vote that the supervisors deny this specific request.