By Matt de Simone
Residents gathered at Buchanan Town Hall on June 8 as the Buchanan Town Council voted unanimously to remove data processing centers as a permitted use within the town’s manufacturing district, marking a significant victory for residents who have voiced concerns about industrial-scale data processing operations in and around Botetourt County.
Mayor Sue Way presided over the meeting, while Town Manager Tim Mack presented the case and guided council through the public hearing process.
The action repeals Section 208(b)(u) of the town’s zoning ordinance, which previously allowed data processing facilities as a by-right use in the M-Manufacturing District. The amendment was recommended unanimously by the Buchanan Planning Commission following a public hearing in May.
Mack explained that the ordinance was originally approved in 2024 to accommodate a cryptocurrency mining operation at the former Virginia Forge property. Since then, concerns regarding noise from the operation prompted zoning enforcement action and renewed debate over whether data processing facilities are an appropriate fit for the town.
“If approved, the repeal would remove data processing as a permitted use,” Mack told council. “Any future proposal would have to return through the zoning amendment process.”
Several residents spoke in favor of the repeal, citing concerns about noise, compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods and the community’s long-term character. Others raised environmental questions regarding larger data centers and their potential impact on water resources and infrastructure.
One speaker suggested the former Virginia Forge site’s proximity to Buchanan Elementary School as a concern. While residents’ concerns were clearly heartfelt, the property and school are not immediately adjacent, illustrating a broader trend seen throughout Botetourt County as public opposition to data centers has grown amid uncertainty surrounding the industry and its long-term impacts.
The discussion comes as a much larger and more visible debate continues elsewhere in the county over a proposed Google-linked data center campus in the Daleville area. Opposition groups have expressed concerns ranging from water consumption and power demands to noise and quality-of-life issues. Supporters argue such facilities can expand the tax base and attract investment. While Buchanan’s vote has no direct effect on county decisions, residents attending Monday’s meeting viewed the repeal as a meaningful local statement on the issue.
Vice Mayor Jamie Manspile, who has frequently voiced concerns about the noise generated by the existing crypto-mining operation, supported the repeal. Mayor Way echoed many of those concerns during the discussion.
The repeal does not immediately affect the crypto-mining operation because existing uses are protected under Virginia zoning law. However, the facility would become a nonconforming use and would remain subject to ongoing enforcement actions related to alleged noise violations.
The vote represented one of the most closely watched actions before the council this year and was greeted favorably by residents who have advocated for tighter controls on data processing facilities.
Later in the meeting, council unanimously adopted the town’s Fiscal Year 2026-27 operating budget and capital improvement plan.
The balanced budget totals approximately $1.58 million across the town’s general, water, and sewer funds. It includes no increase in real estate or personal property tax rates, a 3% pay increase for town staff, establishment of Buchanan’s first capital improvement plan and creation of a future capital reserve fund.
To address rising operational costs and utility infrastructure needs, council approved modest increases in water and sewer rates. The budget also continues investments in water and wastewater systems while positioning the town for future grant opportunities.
In other business, council discussed Planning Commission vacancies, banking services, veterans banners, information technology services and preparations for participation in Virginia’s Main Street program.
The meeting adjourned following council comments and review of upcoming summer events, including the Buchanan Carnival and Fourth of July festivities.
The next meeting of Buchanan Town Council is scheduled for July 13.
