Stokes data center zoning vote: yes to rezoning request, split vote
The Stokes County commissioners approved a rezoning request for a proposed data center in the Walnut Cove area, despite a split vote and active opposition. The project, proposed by Engineered Land Solutions, faced concerns regarding water usage from the Dan River, although the proposal states it will not use the river as a source.
The Stokes County commissioners met in Danbury to vote on a rezoning proposal for a data center planned for the Walnut Cove area by Engineered Land Solutions (ELS). CEO Drew Nations presented the project, followed by over three hours of public comments both for and against the development. Commissioners Wayne Barneycastle, Rick Morris, Brad Chandler, Sonya Cox, and Keith Wood were all present for the vote.
Despite opposition, which included attempts to claim a conflict of interest against Vice Chair Wood that was ultimately dismissed by a board vote, the rezoning request passed with a three-to-two vote. Commissioners Cox, Wood, and Morris voted in favor, while Chandler and Barneycastle voted against. Concerns were raised during the public comment period, including a disputed Facebook poll indicating significant public opposition and ongoing references to the data center's potential impact on the Dan River, though the proposal asserts the river will not be a water source.