Virginia’s First Hears Opposition to Data Centers
Citizens voiced strong opposition to potential data center developments in Pulaski County, Virginia, citing environmental concerns, resource depletion, and lack of protective regulations. An online petition with 1,500 signatures was presented to the Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facilities Authority, urging them to reconsider data center proposals and seek eco-friendly businesses. The Board authorized community meetings to provide general information about data centers.
The Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facilities Authority held a special meeting on August 3rd, where citizens from Pulaski County, Virginia, expressed strong opposition to potential data center developments in the Commerce Park. Residents voiced concerns about environmental impacts, natural resource depletion, and the absence of regulations to protect citizens and control utility costs.
Pete Phillips of Dublin questioned why local officials had not established protective regulations and raised concerns about potential increases in electricity and water prices, impacting local affordability. Tim Vela of Pulaski presented an online petition with approximately 1,500 signatures, indicating significant community disapproval. He argued that research on data centers nationwide reveals more negatives than positives, even regarding tax revenue, and urged the Authority to pursue eco-friendly businesses instead.
Sandra Steele from Dublin posed specific questions regarding the potential impact on residents using wells, the capacity of aging water lines, buffer zones, population growth, and the effects of noise on vulnerable populations like those in adult daycare and nursing homes. She stressed the importance of responsible environmental practices and water recirculation. Debra Berg of Draper referenced past Pulaski County Supervisors meetings where officials, including Board Chairman Laura Walters and County Administrator Jonathan Sweet, initially denied data center plans but later clarified that the Virginia General Assembly allocated $3 billion for a data center and power plant in the county, referred to as "Project Goose" and "Project Poseidon." Sweet subsequently stated that the Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facilities Authority was pursuing projects, including data centers, for the regional industrial park. Graham Claytor of Ingles District criticized the lack of trust from the Board of Supervisors towards citizens.
Following the public comments, the Board authorized Mike Solomon, Executive Director of the Authority, to facilitate community meetings to inform the public about data centers in general. The next meeting of the Virginia’s First Board is tentatively set for September 9, 2026.