August 18, 2026 Amherst County Board of Supervisors Meeting

The August 18, 2026 meeting of the Amherst County Board of Supervisors included extensive public hearings and discussions primarily focused on zoning and land use issues, notably the proposed ordinance regulating data centers and vape shops. The board considered a special exception request for a farm events venue and an amendment to a kennel operation, both of which were approved with conditions. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a contentious public hearing on a data center ordinance, with many citizens expressing concerns about environmental impacts, water usage, noise, property values, and community character. Proponents emphasized the potential economic benefits and tax revenue, while opponents urged caution or outright bans. The board debated whether to table the ordinance for further study but ultimately voted to proceed with the ordinance as presented. Additionally, the board approved budget appropriations for state and pass-through funds, a memorandum of agreement with the public schools for property use, and discussed contracting with Brown Edwards for audit assistance due to financial system issues. The meeting concluded with various committee reports and citizen comments unrelated to procurement.