During the recent Planning Commission meeting held on September 18, 2025, in Goochland County, Virginia, significant concerns were raised regarding the county's approach to data centers and small modular reactors (SMRs). The discussions highlighted the tension between economic development and community health and safety.

One of the primary topics was the proposed ordinance allowing SMRs by right, which drew criticism from residents who questioned the wisdom of such a decision. A speaker expressed skepticism about the reliance on federal regulators to ensure safety, citing a lack of historical experience with SMRs and the potential for regulatory exemptions that could undermine safety protocols. The speaker urged the commission to require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for SMRs, arguing that failing to do so would be a "titanic mistake."

The meeting also addressed the growing presence of data centers in the county, with concerns about their compatibility with residential areas. Dr. Bruce Silverman, a local medical director, pointed out that many data centers are located near homes, leading to adverse impacts on residents. He referenced a state study that recommended against placing data centers near residential zones, emphasizing that the tax revenue generated by these facilities does not justify the potential health risks associated with diesel generators used for backup power. Silverman questioned whether the financial benefits were worth the environmental and health costs, particularly given the rise in diesel exhaust-related health issues.

Breckenridge Daughtry, another resident, supported the county's goal to increase business revenue but called for stricter zoning regulations for data centers and distribution centers near residential neighborhoods. He proposed amendments to increase buffer zones, reduce noise levels, and require public notification and hearings for developments adjacent to homes. Daughtry argued that these changes would protect residents from the negative impacts of industrial developments, which have been observed in nearby counties.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing concern among Goochland residents about balancing economic growth with the preservation of community health and quality of life. As the county considers these proposals, the implications for future development and resident well-being remain a critical focus. The Planning Commission is expected to review the feedback and recommendations before forwarding them to the Board of Supervisors for further consideration.