FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. – Franklin County is debating changes to its zoning rules that could affect whether data centers can move in — and residents are already raising questions about water, electricity and long-term environmental impact.
No data center is currently proposed for Franklin County, but a draft zoning rewrite has locals paying close attention. Data centers are already slated to come to both Botetourt and Pittsylvania counties, and some Franklin County residents want to know if their community is next.
What the draft would change
Under the proposed rewrite, future data centers could be banned from using private wells, face stricter limits on cooling-system noise and be limited to certain zoning areas.
Supporters say clearer rules could make Franklin County more attractive to large employers. Opponents, however, say the rewrite appears designed to market to data center clients…