Residents press board on Google data‑center deal, NDAs and water risks

A string of public commenters used the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors meeting to renew opposition to the county’s handling of a proposed data‑center project and to press for independent water and environmental studies.

Speakers raised long‑standing concerns about closed‑door negotiations and nondisclosure agreements, alleging a lack of transparency. "Google is lying to you," one speaker said, urging the board to pause actions until independent studies are completed. Others said the county’s first obligation is to ensure reliable drinking water and to understand any PFAS or blasting impacts before the county moves forward with site‑level work. Several citizens contrasted the board’s recent choices with expectations of representative government and asked supervisors to restore public trust through clearer disclosure and by honoring district nominations for advisory bodies.

Board members responded in varying tones: some reaffirmed invitations to town halls and noted prior votes or text amendments that allowed data centers in certain zones; others acknowledged citizens’ frustration and emphasized the need for additional data and engagement. The transcript records no new contractual commitments during the meeting; citizens and supervisors agreed further conversations and studies would be necessary to address the core water and trust concerns.