Community leaders challenge Ali's Chickahominy Power Plant proposal at Pennsylvania County meeting

In a tense atmosphere at the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors meeting, concerns over a controversial ballot code proposal dominated discussions, raising alarms about potential environmental and economic repercussions for the community. The meeting, held on May 6, 2025, saw passionate pleas from residents and officials alike, who voiced their apprehensions regarding the developer, Arfon Ali, and his track record of failed projects.

Ali, who has been linked to numerous ambitious developments that never materialized, faced scrutiny over his proposal for a new power plant. Critics highlighted that his previous ventures, including the Chickahominy Power Plant, had not progressed beyond initial announcements, casting doubt on his credibility. “That’s not a portfolio, John. That’s a fantasy,” remarked one board member, emphasizing the lack of tangible results from Ali's past endeavors.

The meeting also revealed a troubling pattern of behavior from Ali, who has reportedly bypassed local governments to engage directly with residents, raising red flags in multiple counties. Officials from Louisa County, for instance, expressed their alarm over Ali's lack of transparency, prompting them to seek state oversight of his activities. “This proposal contradicts all of that,” one speaker noted, referring to the county's comprehensive plan aimed at protecting air and water resources.

Health concerns were a significant focus, with a recent Harvard study estimating that the proposed power plant could incur $31 million in healthcare costs annually for residents. This stark figure stands in contrast to claims made by Ali’s company, which suggested minimal pollution levels akin to those from everyday activities. “It would be completely irresponsible for any of us to rely solely on the information provided by a developer,” cautioned another board member, urging thorough evaluation of the project's potential impacts.

Financial implications were also a hot topic, as discussions turned to the projected tax revenues from the development. With estimates ranging dramatically, some officials expressed skepticism about the reliability of these figures. “Any projected revenue from this development is at best a guess, and at worst, a false promise,” one speaker warned, referencing the recent tax increases faced by neighboring counties due to similar projects.

As the meeting progressed, the emotional weight of the discussions became palpable. Residents voiced their fears that the proposed development could undermine the very fabric of their rural community, trading away health and quality of life for short-term economic gains. “True stewardship requires the courage to say no when a proposal endangers even a portion of the citizens you swore to represent,” one passionate advocate declared.

The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and accountability, urging the board to prioritize the well-being of the community over profit-driven motives. As Pittsylvania County grapples with these pressing issues, the future of its landscape and the health of its residents hang in the balance, leaving many to ponder the direction in which their beloved county is headed.