A packed crowd turned out last night to question the developer of a proposed data center in Stokes County.
Residents pressed Engineered Land Solutions CEO Drew Nations about the facility’s water use, power demand and its potential impacts on the rural character of the community. He said the project would bring new tax revenue and include safeguards designed to limit drawbacks.
Resident Amanda Bunton said she wasn't swayed.
“We're all very skeptical. There's just too many unanswered questions, and when you read on the internet how it's impacted other areas, as far as sound, wildlife, I mean, groundwater ... and you don't know what they can actually promise and what they can't.”
The meeting was a required step before ELS can once again seek rezoning approval. Stokes County commissioners voided their previous approval after it was challenged by environmental advocates.