During the Leesburg Town Council meeting on January 28, 2025, residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed data center in the Stratford neighborhood, raising concerns about its potential impact on community health, quality of life, and local infrastructure.

Lisa Wellet, a Stratford resident, passionately urged the council to prioritize the well-being of residents over the economic interests of data center developers. She highlighted her family's positive experience living in Leesburg for eight years, emphasizing the town's small-town charm and community spirit. Wellet expressed fears that the data center would transform their neighborhood into a concrete landscape similar to Ashburn, where data centers dominate the area. She called on the council to heed the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny the rezoning request.

Other residents echoed Wellet's sentiments, citing issues such as increased noise, pollution, and strain on the already stressed power grid. Micky Samlock pointed out that data centers, particularly those utilizing advanced AI technology, require significantly more energy, raising concerns about the town's capacity to support such developments. He warned that the reliance on generators during peak demand could lead to heightened pollution levels, particularly in the summer months.

Sean Lessman, a long-time Stratford resident, expressed his opposition to placing a data center within the neighborhood, suggesting that such facilities should be located in areas less impactful to residents. He raised questions about the noise generated by testing the center's generators, which could disrupt the community's peace.

John Nuzum and Marsha Keane also voiced their concerns, questioning the availability of power for the proposed data center and advocating for more community-focused developments, such as affordable housing and recreational spaces. Keane emphasized the need to value people over industrial projects, suggesting that the community deserves better than a data center.

The meeting highlighted a growing tension between economic development and community preservation in Leesburg. As residents continue to advocate for their interests, the council faces the challenge of balancing growth with the quality of life for its constituents. The outcome of this proposal will likely shape the future of the Stratford neighborhood and set a precedent for similar developments in the area.