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Smyth County committee debates data‑center ordinance definitions, seeks amendments and site visits
Summary
The Joint Ordinance Committee discussed defining large‑scale data centers (proposed >40,000 sq ft or >10 MW) and amended a draft to allow small data centers by right in industrial zones while holding large facilities to Special Use Permit review; staff will return with amended ordinance language and possible proffers.
County staff and the Joint Ordinance Committee on April 23 discussed a proposed data‑center ordinance that would classify facilities by size and limit where large‑scale centers may operate.
Assistant County Administrator – Development Clegg Williams proposed defining large‑scale data centers as greater than 40,000 square feet or using more than 10 megawatts and permitting large facilities by Special Use Permit in industrial zones while allowing small‑scale facilities by right in industrial zoning. Zoning Administrator Becca Creasy and staff reviewed required elements in the draft ordinance, including decommissioning plans, site‑plan requirements, setbacks, buffers, noise restrictions, energy and utility reporting, and proffer options for public‑safety concerns.
Planning Commissioner Lea Meadows and others asked staff whether water usage by data centers could affect nearby industries; Commissioners were told applicants would report water and power needs as part of the application. County Administrator Shawn Utt noted that Wythe County had projected $14–$16 million in local tax revenue from a new data center, but no revenue projection was adopted for Smyth County. The committee requested staff revise the ordinance language (including consideration of proffers and building height limits for by‑right small facilities) and bring an amended draft to the next Joint Ordinance Committee meeting. No final action was taken at the meeting.
