Should Carroll County enact a zoning ordinance?
Carroll County, Virginia, which currently lacks a zoning ordinance, is considering a newly drafted Land Development and Zoning Ordinance by its Planning Commission. The proposed ordinance is seen by some as a way to regulate businesses, including data centers, which can currently be built anywhere in the county without local government approval. Public opinion is divided, with some supporting zoning to prevent undesirable development like data centers, while others oppose it due to concerns about property rights and overregulation.
The Carroll County Planning Commission has drafted a new Land Development and Zoning Ordinance, making it available for public review. Carroll County is one of only seven counties in Virginia without a zoning ordinance, meaning developers can currently construct any type of business, including data centers, without local government approval.
The article highlights that Virginia is a "By Right" state, allowing development if no local restrictions exist, and a "Dillon Rule" state, limiting local governments to laws allowed under state code. While localities cannot entirely ban data centers, a zoning ordinance could impose restrictions, require public hearings for new developments, and potentially increase public participation.
Public opinion on the proposed zoning ordinance is split. Advocates, like Patty Ashley and Caysee Schmidt, believe it's necessary for protection, specifically mentioning data centers. Beth Smith explicitly stated, "we need restrictions, so there’s no data centers." Conversely, opponents such as Ed Stone and Jerry Sharpe express concern that zoning would negatively impact existing businesses like sawmills or create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for property owners. Ruth Hylton and Aimee Williams shared mixed feelings, acknowledging both potential benefits and drawbacks. Janet Blanding questioned whether the proposed zoning would truly prevent data centers. Hillsville Mayor Greg Crowder declined to comment directly on the county's zoning efforts, deferring to his supervisor.