Community Meeting: Technology Overlay District (TOD)

I attended the Goochland County community meeting on the proposed Technology Overlay District (TOD) and Technology Zone (TZ).

As someone who also lives in eastern Goochland, I understand the concerns many have raised about data centers and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). My priority is making sure your voices are heard as Goochland considers these proposals.

Growth must be balanced with protecting the character of our neighborhoods, and I’ll continue to show up, listen, and advocate for a transparent process that reflects our community’s values.

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Del. David Owen Statement on Goochland County’s Technology Overlay District (TOD)

Thank you for reaching out regarding the proposed Technology Overlay District (TOD) in the East End of Goochland County. I understand that these proposals have created significant concern, especially for residents who recently chose to make their homes in the West Creek community and the communities directly adjacent to West Creek.

I want you to know that I share these concerns not just as your representative, but also as your neighbor. Like you, I value both the character of our community and the thoughtful planning needed to sustain it.

One of my major concerns is that the Goochland County government is effectively acting as a developer, presenting a zoning case to be approved or denied by the Goochland County Government. Since this is the case, more attention needs to be paid to the citizens’ concerns.

I am calling on the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors to not just allow everyone to voice their opinions, but to actually act on the requested changes.  To genuinely act on the numerous comments presented by the residents. The Planning Commission should defer its vote on this matter to allow the Goochland County Staff to thoughtfully amend the proposed TOD.

I believe two major changes are needed. 1) Eliminate the small modular reactors (SMR) from the proposed TOD. 2) Provide a guarantee that any future changes or additions to the TOD must include public hearings and citizen work groups. 

The TOD as currently proposed is not in the best interest of the citizens of Eastern Goochland County and should be deferred until the Goochland County staff can work with citizens to achieve the needed balance between quality of life and economic growth in Eastern Goochland County. 

As your Delegate, I do not have a vote on this matter at the county level. However, please know that I will publicly support the citizens of Goochland during these hearings and will continue to speak out for a transparent process that puts residents first.

Growth in Goochland must be managed responsibly, with careful attention to balancing economic opportunity with the character of our communities. I will continue to follow this issue closely, advocate for a fair process, and make sure your concerns are part of the discussion.

Best regards,

David L. Owen

Virginia House of Delegates, 57th District