King William continues to wrestle over data centers
King William County, Virginia, is grappling with strong public opposition to a controversial draft ordinance that would facilitate data center development. The county's Board of Supervisors has tabled a vote on the ordinance and plans extensive public engagement, including town halls and site visits, to address citizen concerns about environmental impacts, water usage, and potential strain on electricity. Citizens, including members of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, have voiced significant fears regarding groundwater depletion, increased electricity costs, and noise, prompting the county to revise its approach.
King William County, Virginia, is experiencing significant public pushback against a proposed ordinance designed to encourage technology uses, including data centers. County Administrator Derek Stamey informed the Board of Supervisors that over 80% of survey respondents oppose data centers in the rural county, mirroring similar strong opposition in neighboring New Kent County which led to the abandonment of a similar technology overlay district.
The King William County Planning Commission initially recommended the technology ordinance, which aims to promote investment in data centers, electrical component manufacturing, and energy storage while protecting residential and environmental areas. However, the ordinance's "by rights" approach in industrial zones has drawn criticism from residents. In response to public concern, the Board of Supervisors tabled a vote on the ordinance in April to gather more information. Mr. Stamey indicated that updated drafts are forthcoming.
Local residents and indigenous communities, including the Pamunkey Indian Tribe, have voiced concerns about the potential environmental impacts, particularly on groundwater supplies, rivers, and the aquifer. James Barnett, a resident, highlighted that a medium-sized data center could consume as much water annually as 685 households. Other concerns include potential increases in electricity bills, noise, and pollution. Jenny Maloney, a King William farmer, expressed fears about a "weather crisis" and the depletion of the aquifer.
To address these issues, King William County supervisors plan to conduct site visits to technology facilities, host an expert workshop, and hold two town hall meetings in the Central Garage and West Point areas. The county anticipates the ordinance update process will take 120 to 150 days, promising a "thoughtful, transparent and collaborative process" with additional drafts and a public hearing before a final decision.