Kristen Umstattd
- Loudoun’s Data Center Loop: Democratic Supervisors Greenlit the Boom. Ratepayers and Homeowners Face the Lines.
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. — Northern Virginia already hosts the densest cluster of data centers on the planet.
- EMF Fear Still Drives Virginia Power-Line Residue Fights as Democrat-Approved Data Centers Need New Steel
RICHMOND / LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. — Electromagnetic fields are not a side conversation in Virginia’s transmission boom.
- County Adds Public EV Charging Stations at Cascades Library
Loudoun County has installed new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for public use at the Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls.
- BPA’s 1989 Transmission Review Left EMF Health Risk Unsettled — And Still Echoes in Corridor Fights
PORTLAND / RICHMOND — Decades before Virginia’s data center boom forced new 500 kV and 765 kV corridors onto the Mid-Atlantic map, the
- PJM Market Monitor Warns FERC: New Data-Center Loads Risk Customer Blackouts — Ghiorzi Backs Complaint
Monitoring Analytics’ November 2025 EL26 complaint says PJM is interconnecting large loads it cannot serve reliably; Loudoun’s Theresa Ghiorzi’s December comments tie the docket to Data Center Alley’s Democrat-built demand surge.
- Loudoun County Supervisors Advance 12-Month Pause on New Data Center Applications
Loudoun’s Board of Supervisors voted 7-1-1 to draft a temporary pause on new data-center applications while rewriting local rules, with a final vote expected in October.
- Virginia Department of Health Reports Possible Measles Outbreak in Northern Virginia and Washington D.C.
The James A. Wilding arrival hall at Dulles International Airport.
- Loudoun Supervisors Vote 7-1-1 to Advance Yearlong Data Center Application Pause
Staff must draft a resolution for a final October vote after Chair Randall frames the pause as time to rewrite local rules.
- Loudoun Neighbors Push to Demolish Lowes Island Arson Remains Before Anniversary
Algonkian Supervisor Juli Briskman says county demolition could finish in early October if the private owner does not act first.
- Loudoun Supervisors Advance Proposed Yearlong Pause on New Data Centers
A temporary halt on new applications heads toward a final vote Oct. 13 as neighbors and electrical workers clash over growth.
- Loudoun County to Weigh Temporary Pause on New Data Center Applications
Supervisors will review staff plans for a development freeze while rewriting standards and ending remaining by-right grandfathering.
- Virginia House Bill 47 Aims to Expand Tax Relief for Military and Foreign Service Retirees
House Bill 47, which seeks to broaden state income tax subtractions for retirement benefits earned by uniformed services and United States Foreign Service officers, has been left in the House Finance Committee as the 2026 legislative session progresses.
- Loudoun County to Consider Data Center Pause, Removing By-Right Grandfather Clause
A view of a data center in Loudoun County next to Chick Ford & Ryan Bickel Fields.
- David Reid House Bill 182 on High School History Substitutions Clears Assembly
RICHMOND, Va. — House Bill 182, a measure altering high school graduation requirements by permitting substitutions in history and social studies credits, has successfully navigated the Virginia General Assembly and now awaits action from Governor Abigail Spanberger. The bill, introduced by Delegate David Reid of the 28th District in Loudoun County, seeks to provide students
- Loudoun County Supervisors Hear Bill Integrating Environmental Justice Into Comprehensive Plans
The speaker told the board, chaired by Phyllis Randall with Vice Chair Mike Turner and members including Juli Briskman, that the bill would update comprehensive planning to include strategies for addressing disproportionate environmental and health risks in certain communities. T
- Loudoun County Supervisors Hear Call to Fix Childcare Benefits Cliff
The speaker described a scenario involving a mother named Tiffany, who, despite diligent efforts including extra work hours, received a raise that disqualified her from subsidies. This led to unaffordable childcare costs, forcing potential withdrawal from the workforce.
- David Reid Measure to Add a Judge in Loudoun and Fauquier's Twentieth Circuit Advances
RICHMOND, VA – With the 2026 Virginia General Assembly session in its final weeks, a key provision to increase the number of judges in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit has gained significant traction through House Bill 443. Originally introduced as House Bill 46 by Delegate David R
- Loudoun County School Board Votes 5-3-1 Against Elementary School Resource Officers Expansion
Public commenters urged the board to support Sheriff Mike Chapman’s proposal, citing national statistics on mass shootings. Research from the Crime Prevention Research Center reports that 94 to 98 percent of mass public shootings occur in gun-free zones, where armed resistance is
- Public Comment at Loudoun School Board Raises Alarms Over Child Safety Incident
The meeting occurred in Loudoun County, Virginia, under the oversight of the Loudoun County School Board. The board consists of nine members: Chair April Chandler, Vice Chair Anne Donahue, and representatives from the county’s magisterial districts including recent additions sworn in January 2026.
- Public Comment at Loudoun County School Board Highlights Concerns Over Renaming Committee Process
The speaker stated that the group is expected to prioritize input coming specifically from this area and put forward recommendations reflective of community sentiments. Concerns were raised about past processes that became highly political, prompting the board to commit to closely monitoring the current effort to ensure it discourages such maneuvering.
- School Resource Officers’ Training Highlighted in Loudoun County School Board Deliberations
School Resource Officer candidates complete more than 800 hours in police academy instruction, encompassing core policing competencies, followed by over 500 hours of supervised field training.
- Loudoun County Boards Reject Expansion of School Resource Officers to Elementary Schools
Sheriff Mike Chapman’s plan called for placing SROs in elementary schools, with each officer covering three to four schools. Data from the sheriff indicated that in the past three years, SROs stationed at middle and high schools were redirected over 5,000 times to handle incidents at elementaries.
- Fernando Martinez Introduces Legislation Enabling Local Plastic Bag Fees for Environmental Education
The Board, chaired by Phyllis Randall with Mike Turner as vice chair, oversees districts including Algonkian, Ashburn, Blue Ridge, Broad Run, Catoctin, Dulles, Leesburg, Loudoun Valley, and Sterling. Recent meetings featured testimony on the plan’s merits and drawbacks.
- Loudoun County Debates Extended Zoning Enforcement Hours
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors conducted a session focused on enforcing the code with possible 24/7 zoning oversight. Participants reviewed the operational aspects of extending enforcement beyond regular hours. The meeting addressed questions about implementation and resource allocation for such measures. Matt Letourneau participated in the discussion by questioning the safety and necessi
- Lieutenant Governor Ghazala Hashmi hits the road to hear from Virginians on Dominion-NextEra merger
With the clock ticking on the six-month window for the State Corporation Commission to decide whether Dominion Energy should be allowed to merge with the Florida-based NextEra Energy, Lt. Gov. Ghazala Hashmi said this week she would host a statewide tour to meet with constituents, educate them on the case and hear their opinions. Last […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Discusses State Role in Data Center Zoning Decisions
Loudoun Supervisor Mike Turner recently spoke about changes in how data center zoning decisions are being handled at the state level rather than locally. The discussion focuses on a shift where higher government bodies are assuming more control over these matters. This development has prompted questions about the balance between state and local responsibilities in […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Koran Saines Advocates for Rejection of Route 3A
Loudoun County Supervisor Koran Saines addressed the need for the School Board to come together and act promptly against Route 3A. He described the route as one that presents challenges requiring avoidance. Approvals have already been granted for Route 3B and Route 4 as suitable replacements in the planning process. Details on Route Alternatives During […]
- Loudoun County Board Advances Legislative Position on Immigration Enforcement Cooperation
The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors approved a policy statement for its 2026 legislative program following a 6-3 vote on March 3. The statement supports state legislation encouraging transparency in civil immigration enforcement activities and limiting local law enforcement cooperation in immigration matters. This action was proposed by Algonkian District Supervisor Juli Briskman. Board member
- Debate Emerges Over Water Systems for Expanding Data Centers
A recent public meeting addressed the question of requiring closed-loop water systems for new data centers in regions experiencing water scarcity. The speaker referenced a total of 253 data centers in the community, with 250 already in operation. This context framed the discussion on regulating technology expansion while maintaining environmental considerations. The proposal centers on […]
- Loudoun County School Board Holds Discussions on School Safety and Operations
The Loudoun County School Board conducted meetings to discuss matters related to school resource officers in elementary schools and the renewal of agency nursing contracts. These sessions provided a forum for board members to review operational details and gather information from the community. No final decisions were reached during the initial discussions. Public participation is […]
- Loudoun County School Board Holds Meeting on Proposed Transmission Lines
The Loudoun County School Board convened a special meeting at Rock Ridge High School to receive input from residents regarding Dominion Energy’s proposed high-voltage transmission lines. The project aims to support data center operations in the region by connecting substations with new infrastructure spanning approximately nine miles. Attendees voiced specific worries about the routes crossing […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Mike Turner Proposes Mandatory Closed-Loop Water Systems for New Data Centers
Loudoun County Supervisor Mike Turner has proposed that all new data centers incorporate mandatory closed-loop water systems. The suggestion targets the significant water consumption associated with these facilities. Data centers account for 10 percent of the county’s potable water. Most existing operations currently rely on systems that could incorporate closed-loop features. The proposal was pre
- Lowdown from Loudoun: Mike Turner shares data center tips with Maryland audience
Michael Turner, a county supervisor in Loudoun County, Virginia, estimates that the public perception of hyperscale data centers has shifted considerably in the last six to nine months — and he isn’t sure why. Turner, a government official in the county with one of the world’s highest concentrations of data centers with over 250, said […]
- Loudoun County Officials Discuss Data Center Energy Options
Loudoun County Board of Supervisors convened to address questions about data center operators seeking alternatives to grid power. The discussion centered on the potential use of on-site generation methods. Officials examined various technologies that could support the county’s expanding data center sector. Presentations during the meeting referenced specific examples of on-site power projects. One
- Loudoun County School Board Votes on Transmission Line Restrictions
The Loudoun County School Board approved a measure by an eight to zero vote to restrict future transmission lines on school property. The board also reached a unanimous decision to appeal a State Corporation Commission ruling connected to the Golden to Mars project. These actions involve Dominion Energy and potential route adjustments. The decisions occurred […]
- Loudoun County Board Hears Public Comment on Data Center Impacts During Meeting
During a recent meeting of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, a resident presented comments focused on data center developments in the area. The testimony referenced the Vantage VA2 project and its effects on individuals who have purchased homes nearby. The speaker raised questions about the board’s approach to evaluating these facilities. The comments included […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Laura TeKrony Discusses Data Center Application Details
Loudoun County Supervisor Laura TeKrony participated in a board discussion regarding a land use application for data centers located across the Arcola Mills area. She referenced the proposed structures measuring 70 feet in height and noted support from local daycare facilities for the project. The application appears driven primarily by the applicants according to her […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Mike Turner Addresses Full Scope of Data Center Approvals
Loudoun County officials continue to evaluate the expanding presence of data centers and their associated requirements during public meetings. Supervisor Mike Turner provided remarks focused on the complete set of infrastructure elements tied to such approvals. These statements offer insight into the procedural aspects of local development decisions. Approvals for data centers in the county […]
- Loudoun County Board Meeting Features Citizen Accusations Against Chair Phyllis Randall
A citizen addressed the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors during its public comment period. The individual accused Chair Randall of destroying public records. He also claimed she was faking grief in relation to board matters. The speaker referenced prior interactions involving defamation claims. He questioned the chair’s actions and the overall purpose of the meeting. […]
- Board Clarifies Operations of Staff-Led Groups Amid FOIA Inquiry
During a public meeting, Commissioner Banks inquired about the compliance of local committees with the Freedom of Information Act. He asked whether the current structure of these groups might lead to violations of open government standards. The questions focused on how committees handle matters that could involve public business. Board representatives offered a direct response […]
- Resident Raises Concerns About Public Comment Rules at Loudoun County Meeting
During a meeting of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, a resident used the public comment period to address the Chair about the application of rules for speakers. The comments focused on perceived differences in how guidelines were handled for various individuals. The exchange occurred in the presence of board members seated at the dais. […]
- Loudoun Supervisor Juli Briskman Calls for County Role in Dominion Energy Infrastructure Discussions
Loudoun County Supervisor Julie Briskman spoke during a recent meeting about the importance of county involvement in Dominion Energy infrastructure planning. She stated that the county requires a voice in these processes. Briskman observed that several projects are already constructed or under development. Her remarks focused on the need for input to address potential impacts. […]
- Suhas Subramanyam Responds to Questions on International Ties
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam participated in an exchange that focused on his alleged associations with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The conversation also covered his positions related to Indian political developments. Details emerged about his comments on relevant international reports. The discussion referenced the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and its role in e
- Loudoun Supervisor Juli Briskman Raises Questions on WellPath Detention Center Contract and Budget
Loudoun County Supervisor Juli Briskman spoke during a Board of Supervisors meeting regarding healthcare services at the county detention center. She referenced a significant budget increase associated with the contract held by WellPath, the current medical provider. Briskman sought clarification on the status of the agreement amid external developments. The supervisor noted the existence of […]
- Loudoun County Reports Ongoing Staffing Difficulties for Night Shifts
Loudoun County has identified a staffing challenge where employees are not available for night shifts handling public complaints. This stems from a combination of burnout and understaffing that limits the ability to schedule additional hours. The situation affects the county’s capacity to respond to resident inquiries during evening periods. Public complaints often require attention outside […]
- Loudoun County Dedicates Significant Budget Increases to Public Safety and Emergency Operations
Loudoun County has outlined a comprehensive fiscal strategy within its latest financial plan, prioritizing essential public safety operations to ensure core resident protection needs are met. The newly detailed budget allocates a massive portion of its total $5.4 billion framework toward expanding emergency response and law enforcement capabilities. Notably, public safety and judicial administrati
- Loudoun County Official Matt Letourneau Discusses County Subsidies for State Programs
Loudoun County Supervisor Matt Letourneau addressed the issue of counties providing support for responsibilities typically assigned to the state. His comments focused on the financial implications for local budgets. This topic arises as counties manage various programs that intersect with state requirements. The presentation included a reminder about defining surpluses only after all obligations a
- Loudoun Supervisor Phyllis Randall Calls for Action on Attainable Housing Amid Land Use Concerns
Loudoun County Supervisor Phyllis Randall has spoken about the urgency of addressing attainable housing in the county. She raised questions regarding potential impacts on local decision-making powers related to housing development. Randall indicated that county officials need to move forward with their own plans to retain control over land use matters. The discussion centers on […]
- Sterling Community Addresses Data Center Noise Concerns
Residents of Sterling Virginia are addressing concerns related to noise pollution originating from nearby data centers. The high pitched hum has been identified as a factor affecting the quality of life for people in the community. These individuals are seeking accountability to manage the situation effectively. The noise issue has been described as constant and […]
- Loudoun County Allocates $29 Million to Housing Fund Amid Budget Approval
Loudoun County officials have announced a massive financial commitment to address regional affordability with a newly proposed budget allocating twenty-nine million dollars to the local Housing Fund. This significant investment relies on the dedication of one cent of the real property tax rate alongside proceeds generated from the county cigarette tax. County administrators view this […]