Caroline County Board of Supervisors Seizing Farmland to Build Data Centers

On June 18, the Caroline County Board of Supervisors unanimously decided to proceed with the condemnation of 11 acres of farmland along the Rappahannock River. This decision marks a significant step in a plan to extract up to 13.9 million gallons of water daily from the river. The water will be transported 35 miles south to supply areas around Carmel Church and any excess will be redirected into the Mattaponi River.

Currently, Caroline County depends on groundwater for its public water supply. However, heavy usage over the years has severely depleted the aquifer. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has mandated that the county seek alternative water sources.

Clayton Forehand, a member of the Caroline County Board, highlighted the severity of the situation: “As the aquifer in eastern Virginia has dwindled, restrictions on new wells have tightened. The town of Bowling Green is out of water, and our capacity as a county is severely limited.”

The vote to advance with the property condemnation followed a public hearing where numerous residents from Caroline and neighboring counties voiced strong opposition to the project. Rebekah Garrett, whose family owns the targeted property, expressed frustration, saying, “I don’t believe the county is acting in good faith. The project should not proceed without addressing the concerns of environmental groups, political entities, native tribes, and local residents.”

The Garretts, who have been farming the land for generations, were dismayed to learn that the county intends to use their property for a new pumping plant and treatment facility. The Garrets purchased the land from a relative in 2020, but Supervisors suggest that the county’s plans to acquire the property were already in motion prior to this purchase. Supervisor Nancy Long mentioned that she had informed Mr. Garrett about the county’s intentions before the sale.

Forehand accused the Garrets of taking advantage of the situation, noting that the county often faces competition to purchase critical parcels. Mr. Garrett argued that he had no intention of selling the land and was further constrained by a conservation easement placed on the property shortly after the purchase. Supervisors believe the easement was a mistake by state officials, who had previously shown interest in the land.

Several speakers, including Mary Sue Bancroft, Supervisor for King William County, criticized the use of eminent domain, especially for a long-standing family farm. Bancroft, representing constituents concerned about the Mattaponi River’s health, found the action unreasonable.

Supervisors acknowledged that while they dislike using eminent domain, they believe it is necessary for the county’s welfare. Forehand explained, “Eminent domain is a common practice for public infrastructure. It’s unpleasant, but our options are dwindling.”

Resident Kevin Thomas criticized the lack of transparency, noting that the county’s permit application dates back to 2020, yet the first community meeting didn’t occur until 2023. Forehand responded that the county has been working on this plan since 2004 and emphasized that significant investments have been made based on expert recommendations.

Thomas suggested that better communication might have alleviated some opposition. Supervisors clarified that the majority of the water will serve local residents’ needs, with any economic growth being a secondary benefit. Caroline County has already approved three data centers, and Forehand argued that attracting businesses helps reduce the tax burden on residents.

“We’re aiming to balance the needs of our citizens with sustainable growth,” Forehand said. “Controlling the water supply is crucial for managing growth.”

Despite extensive research and planning, the Board remains resolute in their decision, stating that they are acting in the best interests of the county. However, Cory Garrett remains skeptical. “Actions speak louder than words,” he remarked.