Commission to wait for state language, plans April info session as industrial code and Data Center bills move through General Assembly

Shenandoah County staff told the Planning Commission they will delay final local code language for Data Centers until state code proposals are finalized, and they plan an information session for industrial property owners in April 2026.

Director of Community Development Lemuel Hancock said state code regarding Data Centers is still moving through the General Assembly and could materially affect local drafting; he told commissioners staff would wait until May for a public hearing on local code changes tied to state action. "Based on the information from tonight’s meeting, staff would contact Jordan Bowman, County Attorney, for review," Hancock said.

Kim Woodwell of the Alliance for the Shenandoah Valley summarized the state-level debates she is tracking: "The two big bills being looked at by the House and Senate are water transparency (disclosure of water use) and noise (sound profile)." Jenna French, Director of Tourism and Economic Development, noted that less than one percent of the county is zoned Industrial, a point commissioners said affects how broadly new requirements may apply locally.

At the end of the meeting the Planning Commission voted to authorize staff to work on industrial code language, a motion approved by roll call. Mr. Hancock also proposed holding an informational session in April for existing industrial property owners to clarify potential new requirements and timing.