Louisa County sets public hearing, proposes 18‑month moratorium on data‑center construction

The Louisa County Board of Supervisors voted to set a public hearing on July 7 at 6:15 p.m. for an ordinance that would impose an immediate 18‑month moratorium on rezoning, special‑use permits and building permits for data‑center projects in unincorporated parts of the county.

The ordinance text read to the board said the county lacks specific rules for data‑center development and that such projects could affect land use patterns, water resources, electrical infrastructure, environmental quality, agricultural preservation, noise, lighting and property values. The moratorium would remain in place until the board adopts an ordinance regulating data‑center construction or until 18 months elapse, whichever comes first.

Supervisors debated whether cryptocurrency mining or bitcoin ‘mining’ operations should be included alongside traditional data centers. One supervisor said those operations use large amounts of electricity and water and urged they be considered; another suggested the zoning board examine the legal distinctions and consider separate classifications if necessary. Board members emphasized the need to study closed‑loop cooling plans, water disposal methods and noise impacts from server‑cooling fans before drafting rules.

The board voted to set the required publication and a public hearing date; the motion was seconded and carried. The board directed staff to gather information and coordinate with affected agencies while the ordinance is developed. The hearing will be held at the board’s regular meeting on July 7 at 6:15 p.m., with public notice to be published according to statute.

Next steps include staff and supervisor review of technical impacts (water use, electrical upgrades, noise mitigation) and proposed zoning language before the scheduled hearing.