Dinwiddie staff previews options to regulate data centers, commissioners ask for power‑line map

At the Oct. 9 meeting the planning commission discussed how Dinwiddie County might treat data centers and other emerging‑technology uses in the zoning ordinance. Staff (with economic development involvement) said the county is considering either permitting such uses in industrial districts or allowing them in specific overlay districts; both approaches could be used to set conditions such as location, screening, and utility requirements.

Commissioners raised technical questions about electrical power availability and emphasized the need for a map showing transmission lines and areas with capacity, noting that Dominion transmission lines are a limiting factor in the county. Staff said such a map exists from prior solar siting work and that staff would provide it; the topic will be part of the joint workshop in November so the commission and the Board of Supervisors can discuss methodology and suitability before any ordinance changes.

No formal action was taken; staff committed to supplying the requested utility/transmission information prior to the workshop.