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EDA/IDA Board Meeting
September 5, 2025
Page 3
Data Centers
Mrs. Kingston remarked that City Council has expressed a keen interest in data centers and
the potential tax revenue such developments might offer Newport News. She stated that to
help educate the Board on the data center sector, she was pleased to introduce Vince
Barnett with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). Mrs. Kingston
explained that Vince is VEDP鈥檚 Industry Leader for Data Centers, providing leadership and
expertise for the wider benefit of the Commonwealth.
Mrs. Kingston added that prior to assuming this role in June 2022, Mr. Barnett served as
VEDP's Vice President of Business Investment. She noted that Vince is a Newport News
native who attended Virginia Commonwealth University and earned a BS in Mass
Communications and Advertising.
Mr. Barnett greeted and thanked the Board. Mr. Barnett described data centers as
specialized facilities that house computer systems and other technology to store, process,
and disseminate data. He emphasized that data centers are the backbone of the digital
economy, powering essential services such as online banking, streaming, healthcare,
education, and public safety.
Mr. Barnett outlined the different data center types and use applications, highlighting the
benefits of data centers for Virginia. Mr. Barnett referenced findings from the Joint
Legislative Audit Review Commission (JLARC) report, reaffirming the industry鈥檚 far-reaching
economic impact. He noted that JLARC emphasized strong regulatory frameworks already
in place and encouraged localities to proactively update planning and zoning to manage
growth.
Mr. Barnett reported that many Virginia communities have already benefited from the
industry鈥檚 economic contributions and shared that data centers support tens of thousands of
jobs, billions in labor income, and add over $9B annually to the state鈥檚 GDP. Mr. Barnett
discussed Virginia鈥檚 robust project pipeline, and emphasized that this pipeline demonstrates
ongoing strength in the sector and significant opportunities within the Commonwealth.
Mr. Barnett explained the primary selection factors for data center projects, stressing that
abundant and affordable power is paramount. He added that site availability, water and
fiber access, community support, and a competitive business environment are also critical
considerations. Mr. Barnett advised that communities could distinguish themselves by
adopting proactive strategies such as fast-track permitting, clear zoning, utility partnerships,
and community engagement to address misconceptions about data centers. He reiterated
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