Christiansburg ups requirements for any future data center
The Christiansburg Town Council voted 6-0 to increase zoning requirements for future data centers, mandating a conditional use permit for all projects. This decision aims to provide more planning review and public input, addressing concerns about energy consumption and compatibility with residential areas. The move aligns with a statewide trend of localities imposing stricter regulations on data center development.
The Christiansburg Town Council unanimously voted 6-0 to tighten zoning regulations for future data center developments, reflecting a growing trend across Virginia localities. The new ordinance mandates a conditional use permit for all data center requests in general industrial zones, effectively replacing the previous by-right allowance.
Mayor Mike Barber indicated that this change is designed to "slow things down" regarding potential data center applications. Planning Director Retta Jackson informed the council about findings from the state Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, noting both potential revenue benefits and concerns such as large construction impacts, limited long-term employment, high energy demand, potential effects on residential electric bills, and incompatibility with residential areas.
Town Attorney Reid Broughton described the amendment as a "good first step" in clarifying the town's definitions of data centers. Councilwoman Johana Hicks voiced strong opposition to data centers, urging rapid further work on definitions to prevent their development. This action follows similar moves by other localities, including Henry County, which approved stricter zoning rules, and Goochland County, which proposed amendments to prohibit data centers outside specific technology overlay districts.