Henry County Withdraws Proposed Data Center Regulations

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HENRY COUNTY, Va. — The Henry County Board of Supervisors unanimously removed proposed data center regulations from a package of zoning amendments Tuesday night following significant public opposition.

More than 100 residents attended the public hearing, raising concerns about water consumption, noise, public health and the possible effects of data centers on wildlife habitats. Several speakers argued that the proposed requirements did not go far enough, while others requested a temporary moratorium on data center development.

The proposed regulations would have required data center developers to obtain a special-use permit, submit a water-impact study, conduct noise testing and meet certain equipment standards. Data centers would also have been limited to industrially zoned properties.

County Attorney George Lyle advised supervisors against imposing a moratorium, saying it could leave the county in a vulnerable position. County Administrator Dale Wagoner also said there are currently no active data center proposals in Henry County.

Residents addressed the board for approximately two hours. Some questioned whether county officials had received financial incentives connected to potential developments. Supervisor Garrett Dillard denied receiving or accepting any kickbacks.

Following the public hearing, supervisors removed all data center provisions from the proposed zoning amendments. The Henry County Planning Commission is expected to develop a new set of regulations, although no timeline has been announced.

The board approved the remaining zoning amendments, including a reduction in the amount of land permitted for utility-scale solar projects. The county’s solar cap was lowered from 2,445 acres to 1,754 acres—the amount already approved for solar development. The change effectively prevents additional solar projects from receiving approval under the current ordinance.

The Board of Supervisors’ next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 25.