By Monica Johnson
Publication Date: 2026-01-21 23:18:00
BOTETOURT CO., Va. – Local officials are facing mounting criticism over their handling of a Google data center project, with residents and journalists citing concerns about a lack of transparency and communication from county leadership.
Multiple attempts to secure interviews with Botetourt County officials, including the county administrator and board of supervisors members, have been unsuccessful. Officials have cited other priorities requiring immediate attention when asked to discuss the data center project.
Community members report that some board of supervisors members have referenced non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) when declining to answer questions about the project. However, the existence of such agreements between Google and county officials cannot be independently verified due to limited communication from county leadership.
“That entire project, the purchase of that property, was done in secret,” said Bill Van Velzer, a local resident. “The board, the county…
