Virginia Beach City Council Rejects Future Large-Scale Data Center Development
The Virginia Beach City Council has unanimously agreed to reject all future large-scale data center development in the city, following months of public opposition. Mayor Bobby Dyer emphasized the city's firm stance, though existing colocation facilities will not be affected. The proposed resolution still needs a planning commission review and a final council vote.
The Virginia Beach City Council has unanimously voted to reject all future large-scale data center development within the city, a decision stemming from months of fervent public opposition. Mayor Bobby Dyer clearly articulated the council's firm stance during a recent meeting, stating, "we will not entertain any data centers in the city of Virginia Beach" and later adding, "we're saying hell no to data centers." This declaration was met with applause from residents who had packed council meetings to voice their concerns.
While the city is imposing a ban on new hyperscale data centers, officials clarified that existing colocation facilities operating in Virginia Beach will not be affected. These facilities are categorized differently from the large-scale projects that ignited community resistance. The proposed resolution, formalizing the council's position, still needs to be reviewed by the planning commission and undergo a final vote by the City Council.