Varina District Board defers zoning ordinance for data centers to June 10 meeting

The Henrico County Board of Supervisors held a special joint meeting on May 15, 2025, focusing on zoning amendments and the future of data centers in the area. The primary discussion centered around the need for a more controlled approach to data center development, particularly in the Varina District.

During the meeting, board members emphasized the importance of balancing industrial growth with residential needs. One supervisor highlighted recent decisions that have led to significant investments in affordable housing, citing a $60 million commitment from a previous rezoning that will help lower home prices for residents. The supervisor defended their record, pointing out improvements in community infrastructure, including new schools, police stations, and libraries.

The board agreed to defer both the comprehensive plan amendment and the zoning ordinance amendment to their regular meeting on June 10, 2025. This decision allows for further consideration of an amended proposal that would require a provisional use permit for all data centers in the county, eliminating the previous by-right designation. This change aims to give the board more control over where data centers can be located, ensuring that community concerns are addressed.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among board members to prioritize public input and careful planning regarding future developments, particularly in light of the growing concentration of data centers nationwide. The next steps will involve drafting the amended ordinance for public hearing in June, marking a significant shift in how Henrico County manages its land use and development strategies.