The Powhatan County Board of Supervisors meeting on October 28, 2024, centered around a proposed data center project that has sparked significant community interest and concern. The board discussed the potential economic benefits of the data center, including an estimated $17 million in annual tax revenue and the creation of 150 to 200 direct jobs, with the possibility of generating up to 600 indirect jobs in the surrounding area.

Mark Kurzlake, representing the applicant, emphasized that the data center aligns with the county's comprehensive plan, which designates the site for economic opportunity. He highlighted that the project would diversify the county's tax base, which is currently heavily reliant on residential properties, and would help preserve the rural character of Powhatan by concentrating development in designated areas.

However, community members raised several concerns during the public hearing segment of the meeting. Residents questioned the project's impact on local infrastructure, particularly regarding traffic increases and the adequacy of water resources. Some expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of the data center, citing potential risks associated with the required 300-megawatt substation and the financial implications for local electricity rates if the data center fails to meet its commitments.

Several speakers called for a deferral of the decision until the completion of a state study examining the impacts of data centers on Virginia's resources. They argued that the board should wait for more comprehensive data before making a decision that could significantly alter the county's landscape.

The board also discussed the need for traffic studies and other assessments to ensure that any potential negative impacts are adequately addressed. Kurzlake assured that traffic improvements would be funded by the applicant and implemented before construction begins.

As the meeting concluded, the board faced the challenge of balancing the potential economic benefits of the data center against the concerns of residents regarding its impact on the community. The decision on the data center proposal remains pending, with further discussions expected in future meetings.