Data center revenue helps Louisa County cut personal property tax rate

The Louisa County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a $201 million fiscal 2027 budget, which notably includes a 15% reduction in the personal property tax rate, lowering it from $2.43 to $2.07 per $100 assessed. This significant tax relief measure, replacing an earlier proposed rebate, was made possible by early revenue generated from data center projects currently under construction in the county. Jackson Supervisor Toni Williams emphasized the county's strong financial standing, citing $30 million in cash for Capital Improvement Programs and significant savings for a future elementary school. Williams, a vocal advocate for attracting data centers, acknowledged community concerns but asserted the economic benefits for citizens, aiming to shift the tax burden from homeowners to businesses. He downplayed electricity concerns, suggesting other counties would simply attract the projects if Louisa did not, and projected that future data center tax revenue could eventually exceed the county's entire operational budget. Amazon is building two of the three current data center projects in Louisa County, though a proposal for its fourth project was withdrawn in July due to increased community opposition. Board Chair Duane Adams supported the current projects, expressing hope that continued data center revenue would eventually allow for real estate tax rebates for residents. The Board also announced that "no additional data center projects will be allowed without a Conditional Use Permit" moving forward, with existing projects already located in industrially zoned areas or including substantial buffers.