Residents urge Charles City Council to reject Dio data center rezoning proposal

The Charles City County Board convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss significant community concerns regarding a proposed data center by Diode Ventures. The meeting featured passionate public comments, particularly from residents worried about the potential environmental and social impacts of the project.

The primary focus of the discussion centered on the rezoning request for the data center, which many residents believe poses a threat to the community's way of life. One resident expressed deep concerns about the project's implications, stating that it would "destroy the peace we cherish" and could lead to severe water shortages by tapping into local aquifers. The speaker emphasized that Diode Ventures lacks a clear plan for water usage, which is critical for cooling and operational needs, as well as fire suppression.

Residents criticized the company's assertion that environmental assessments could only occur after zoning approval, arguing that such studies should precede any rezoning decisions. They highlighted that the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality supports early environmental reviews to inform both decision-makers and the public about potential risks.

Concerns were also raised about the proposed emergency access road for the data center, with residents questioning whether it would require the use of eminent domain to acquire land from private citizens. This request was deemed unacceptable by community members who felt it prioritized corporate interests over local needs.

Additionally, the track record of Diode Ventures, a subsidiary of Black and Veatch, was scrutinized due to past legal disputes and environmental concerns in other regions. Residents voiced fears about noise, air, and light pollution, which they believe would disrupt the rural character of their community.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the Board to reject the rezoning request, with residents urging their representatives to prioritize the health, safety, and tranquility of Charles City County over corporate profit. The Board's decision on this matter remains pending, as community members await further developments.