Regan Washer

On the question of data centers in Fauquier County, I have a simple answer: No.

I have stated from the start of this campaign and I mean it with absolute sincerity, data centers are a blight on the countryside and do not belong out here. Fauquier County has rich history, beautiful views, thriving agriculture and is home to an abundance of wildlife. It has remained largely untainted by the push for modern development. I am not the candidate who will be voting in favor of data centers.

I believe the essence of Fauquier County cannot be sold out so easily for the promise of tax revenue. Instead, I believe we need to embrace what makes our county unique: Encourage and foster true local small businesses, not cover their existence in red tape, push them out and open the door for large multinational chains to come in and set up shop. Support more small farms that offer direct to consumer options. Look towards transient tax dollars that are more valuable than local taxpayers’ dollars.

What I mean is, those who come to our county to enjoy the views, the hikes, the wineries, the horse events, to purchase goods from our local farms, they will spend their money here then go back to wherever they call home. Transient tax dollars do not put a strain on our local services. In summary, we need to think 10, 20 even 50 years ahead, not just the next few tax years. Too many have worked too hard for too long to protect this special place for us to allow it to be overrun with data centers and other invasive development.

I recognize the politically safe answer on data centers is to say, as my opponent has said, that we should proceed with the current case-by-case approach. That mushy answer suggests to conservationists that you are on their side but tells developers you are open to a deal. Well, I’m NOT open to a deal. I will oppose any data center expansion in Fauquier County and oppose any regulatory changes that would support data center expansion.