Note: The information in this post is derived from an in-depth report by LoudounNow. For full details, you can read the original article here.
Leesburg stands at a critical juncture as it considers the approval of new high-capacity water users, specifically data centers. The potential impact of these developments on our town’s water and sewer infrastructure has sparked significant debate within our community. It’s essential to evaluate these implications thoroughly before making any decisions that could have long-lasting effects on our resources and residents.
Zoning and Accountability
One of our primary concerns is the reliability of promises made by Keane, the developer, who has filed for rezoning and special exceptions to accommodate a 700,000 square foot data center at Oaklan Land Bay A. While Keane can propose various benefits, such as job creation and technological advancement, these promises are not always binding once zoning approvals are granted. The reality is that after the sale, developers may not be present to ensure these commitments are fulfilled. Therefore, it is crucial for our town’s leaders to secure legally binding agreements that hold developers accountable for their promises.
Water and Sewer Capacity Strain
The introduction of data centers poses a significant challenge to Leesburg’s water capacity. Currently, our town uses an average of 4.2 million gallons per day (mgd) but has a permitted capacity of 12.8 mgd. The addition of new data centers has already increased the maximum daily water demand from just over 5 mgd to nearly 7 mgd. Future projections estimate that average daily demand could grow to 6.2 mgd, with peak periods requiring up to 10 mgd. Reaching the 10.2 mgd threshold would trigger state regulations requiring expensive upgrades to our water treatment infrastructure.
The financial implications of such upgrades are substantial. Estimates suggest that enhancing the water treatment system could cost between $80 million and $100 million. This expense would likely be distributed among the town’s households, potentially increasing monthly sewer bills by around $40 to $51 over a decade. Additionally, the town’s wastewater treatment system, already stressed beyond its 7.5 mgd capacity, would need further investment to handle increased demand.
Developer Suggestions on Cooling Methods
Keane has suggested that the new data center could rely on air cooling for its equipment, implying this could mitigate some concerns. However, this is not a binding commitment and is merely a suggestion aimed at reducing community worries. The reality is that air cooling, while feasible, can lead to higher noise levels and greater energy consumption compared to liquid cooling systems. Liquid cooling, although more efficient and quieter, is generally more expensive to implement.
It’s essential to understand that these suggestions are not guarantees. They represent potential choices the builder might one day make, but there is no obligation for Keane to follow through on these suggestions once zoning approval is granted. This attempt to downplay legitimate concerns about water and energy consumption should be scrutinized closely.
Our Community’s Voice
Our concerns are not unfounded. One of our town council members has expressed reservations about the water capacity issue, aligning with many residents’ worries. Highlighting these points in our discussions and community forums is essential to ensure our voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
We, the Leesburg Communities for Responsible Growth, believe in prioritizing sustainable and responsible development that benefits the entire community. The proposed Oaklawn data center project, while promising certain economic benefits, poses significant risks to Leesburg’s water capacity and infrastructure. Instead of committing to projects that could strain our resources and lead to increased costs for residents, we support alternative developments that offer long-term economic diversity and community engagement.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
Our vision for Leesburg is one of responsible and sustainable growth. By prioritizing projects that require less water and energy, we can protect our town’s resources and ensure a high quality of life for all residents. We advocate for initiatives that create jobs, foster community engagement, and attract people to our area, offering long-term economic benefits without compromising our environment.
As Leesburg navigates these challenges, it is crucial for the community to stay informed and engaged. The potential approval of new data centers, like the Oaklawn project, could significantly impact the town’s water and sewer infrastructure, leading to higher costs for residents. Our town leaders must carefully consider these factors to ensure sustainable development and protect the interests of the community.
For more updates and to get involved in the conversation, visit No More Data Centers.
Sources:
- LoudounNow: Leesburg Staff Urges Caution in Water Capacity Planning
- World Population Review: Leesburg, Virginia Population 2024
- US Population: Leesburg, Loudoun County, Virginia Population
Stay informed and join the discussion to ensure the sustainable future of our town.