Residents urge caution on data-center projects during Stokes County public comment

During public comment the Stokes County Board of Commissioners heard a lengthy critique of large data-center projects from Walnut Cove resident Tim Mabe.

Mabe, who said he has lived 75 years in Walnut Cove, contrasted solar farms''which he described as quiet and compatible with grazing sheep''with what he called "mega data centers," which he said produce near-constant noise, bright lights and other disruptions. He warned such facilities could depress nearby home values and urged commissioners to consider hiring professional representation to review proposals and contracts involving tens of millions or billions of dollars.

"Mega Data Centers give their neighbors 24 fourseven noise, bright lights, air pollution..." Mabe said, urging the board to get answers to questions about NDAs, final ownership, power sources, grid connections and the developer's employment pledges.

What the board said: Commissioners thanked Mabe for his comments but did not take action on any development proposal during the meeting. The chair said staff and the county attorney would review development inquiries and that the county could expect follow-up contacts from residents.

Context: Public comment is a forum for residents to urge the board to consider additional safeguards or to press for professional advice when reviewing very large development proposals; developers or project proponents did not present or respond at this meeting.