Full Breakdown
Regional Board Approves Wood Haven Land Deal, Sparking Data-Center Fears
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority voted in a closed session on Friday to enter a purchase agreement for a parcel at Wood Haven Technology Park. The motion passed with votes from Valmarie H. Turner, Chris Dorsey and Richard … . The board declined to disclose the intended use of the property, prompting immediate protests from residents who fear a data-center development.
Background & Context
The authority, a twelve-member body representing Botetourt, Franklin, Roanoke, Salem and Vinton, acquired the 111-acre park in 2016 for economic development. The site is zoned for light industrial uses and has over 50 acres of pad-ready land with utilities in place. Earlier this year a proposed data-center sale fell through, and the park has been the focus of community controversy since its development began roughly a decade ago.
Official Statements & Responses
The board’s public statement reiterated that any future development must follow the park’s master plan, zoning restrictions and standards set in public hearings in 2018 and 2020.
Verbatim Quotes
- “That’s all there is to that,” — Vice Mayor Terry McGuire, said vice mayor
- “No sir, I’m asking you, what did you just vote on as a public body,” — Terry McGuire, said vice mayor
- “Why would you keep doing this knowing how against our community is?” — Kathryn Hatam. Speaker
- “Tell us about what you just voted on,” — Terry McGuire, said vice mayor
- “This does not tell us anything. … Is there any information that you can share with the constituents of the city of Roanoke?” — Bryce Hunter, the authority’s attorney
- “I’m so disappointed in you all,” — Kathryn Hatam
What’s Next
Board members directed inquiries to the Freedom of Information Act process, and the authority’s attorney indicated the sale remains under negotiation. The water authority’s spokesperson confirmed no water-use information has been received from any prospective tenant. Residents and local officials have signaled that further public comment periods and possible legal challenges may follow as the due-diligence phase proceeds.