The Prince William Board of County Supervisors passed a resolution Tuesday to initiate amendments to the Design Construction Standards Manual (DCSM) and zoning ordinance to address any impacts data centers might have on the community. The Board also amended the Noise Ordinance as part of the County Code to remove the commercial HVAC exemption from the nighttime maximum permissible sound pressure levels with a one-year sunset clause.

In January, the Board directed county staff to establish a working group of residents who live near data centers, industry representatives and other stakeholders to work collaboratively over the next year to review the status of the Noise Ordinance amendment. Staff will bring any amendments to the Board before advertising a public hearing.

“The Board of County Supervisors want to address concerns regarding data center uses through a transparent process,” remarks Chair At-Large Ann Wheeler. “The working group is intended to bring together subject matter experts and those who have expressed concerns to gather accurate information. Community engagement is a key component in this process.”

The resolution to initiate amendments to the DCSM will give county staff the time and resources to research, analyze and hold public meetings and hearings with the Planning Commission and the Board, and consider noise mitigation measures such as noise walls and other noise-reducing measures, noise studies buffering, berms, setbacks, landscaping, screening, fencing, building design and height, environmental impacts and land disturbance.

The Board also transferred, budgeted and appropriated funding for consulting services to assist county staff and working groups with developing recommendations.

Amending the zoning ordinance and the DSCM requires public necessity, convenience, general welfare and good zoning practice. Staff will provide an appropriate opportunity for residents and the business community to provide input and feedback on noise issues.