Residents flood meeting with opposition to proposed data‑center application

A large portion of the July 21 meeting was devoted to citizen comment focused on a proposed large data‑center project (referred to by speakers as the Haven Oak/Technology Park proposal). Dozens of residents and local activists spoke during the citizen‑comment period and the public hearings, expressing strong opposition and demanding rigorous review.

Speakers raised multiple concerns: potential strain on groundwater and private wells, noise and visual impacts from large facilities and substations, proximity to Civil War earthworks and other historic resources, possible increases in local electricity rates, and skepticism about promised economic benefits and job creation. "If this was to move forward adjacent to my home, I would not know how I would benefit — whether I'd get county water or face greater utility costs," one resident told the board. Another commenter said the county should consider ordinances to restrict data‑center siting in residential areas. Some speakers alleged past nontransparent behavior and asked for documentary proof of funding, agreements or payments; county Administrator responded explaining the formal review process: staff review, Planning Commission hearings (anticipated September–October) and then a board decision, and denied that county staff or the board had recruited the developer or signed non‑disclosure agreements.

Board members and the county administrator repeatedly emphasized that no vote on the data center occurred at the meeting and described the statutory process the county must follow. Staff said the application is under review and may not reach the Planning Commission until September or October after multi‑agency review. Citizens were encouraged to continue attending hearings and submit written comments as the review proceeds.