On the agenda: Powhatan County meeting — Data center (Mar 4)

AGENDA
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE
CITIZENS WORKING GROUP
REGULAR MEETING
March 4, 2025
3: 00 PM CALL TO ORDER (Village Building - Conference Room)

1. Call to Order
2. Review of Minutes from February 18, 2025, CWG Meeting
3. Economic Development Review Continued:
a. Economic Development (Chapter 4, 2021 Comprehensive Plan) Review
b. Identifying Commerce Center/Light Industrial Uses in Conflict with
Recommendations
c. GIS Layers for Economic Development- Final Updates
4. Initial Review: 2021 Comprehensive Plan, Housing - Chapter 5
a. Population and Housing Data
b. 2025 – 2028 Strategic Plan: Strategic Priority 3, Housing and Residential Options
c. 2021 Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 5 – Housing (Pg. 31, 2021 Comp Plan)
d. Map 5: Countywide Future Land Use Map (pg.70, 2021 Comp Plan)
e. Additional Items or Discussions
5. Adjourn

Powhatan County Comp Plan Citizen Workgroup
Regular Meeting
February 18, 2025

VIRGINIA: AT A REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CITIZEN
WORKGROUP HELD IN THE VILLAGE BUILDING CONFERENCE ROOM, 3910
OLD BUCKINGHAM ROAD IN POWHATAN COUNTY, VIRGINIA ON FEBRUARY
18, 2025

1. Call to Order
Chairman Timberlake called meeting to order at 6:30pm

2. Review of Minutes from February 4, 2025, CWG Meeting
Mr. Donati, Sr motioned to approve the minutes as presented.
Mr. Rissmeyer seconded the motion

VOTE 12-0
Motion PASSED

3. Review of Key Impacted Areas of Comprehensive Plan
Before moving into discussion, Chairman Timberlake handed out the adopted Strategic Plan
from the Board. He noted that Priority 6 was added back in which was a change from earlier
drafts. Copies can be found on the website
https://www.powhatanva.gov/DocumentCenter/Index/381. The impact that Priority 6 would have
on the directive given to the Workgroup was discussed among the group.
Mr. Bradbury asked about the “gap” area referred to often in meetings and if that was in the
Comprehensive Plan or if was just a name given to a certain area. Discussion continued on the
“gap” area and where it originated in the 2010 Comp Plan and referred to by various names in
subsequent comp plans.

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Powhatan County Comp Plan Citizen Workgroup
Regular Meeting
February 18, 2025

a) Economic Development (Chapter 4, 2021 Comprehensive Plan) Review
Mrs. Salerno went over the Strategic Plan Priorities and how rearranging the objectives of
Chapter 4 of the current Comprehensive Plan would be necessary to coincide with the Strategic
Plan Priorities.
Mr. Reilly asked if there was language in the current Comp Plan that Mrs. Salerno felt needed to
be rearranged or removed.
Mrs. Salerno noted updating some of the language and reorganize the order was the direction she
felt was necessary.
Mr. Shust noted there was no mention of the EDA in the current Comp Plan. Mr. Melton agreed.
Mrs. Salerno stated that the EDA should be added in the top objectives in Chapter 4.
Mr. Reilly stated that Mrs. Salerno would be the expert to modify how Chapter 4 should read
based on what her daily focus and goals are.
Mr. Melton brought up that the aging population is the fastest growing population of Powhatan
and therefore the economic growth should focus on the needs of that population. For instance,
medical facilities would be of interest to this population.
Mr. Rissmeyer commented on quick research about medical offices needed per capita and based
on the population of Powhatan we should 118 doctors so trying to encourage or attract medical
offices should be a focus.
Mrs. Salerno agreed but also related to the group that medical facilities are similar to other
commercial businesses, and they base decisions off rooftops which sometimes counts Powhatan
out but that they we have had various medical offices or facilities looking in our area. Larger
groups like HCA or Bon Secours have extensive restrictions so that is harder to attract to our
area.
Chairman Timberlake stated that the group should keep in mind medical facilities come with
medical exemptions so although helpful for the public, they don’t necessarily generate tax money
for the County which doesn’t help meet the 85/15 tax split. So, the group should keep this in
mind when looking at areas for these types of businesses.
Mr. Rissmeyer brought up research he did on agribusiness specifically logging, agrivoltaics and
farm to table programs that smaller tracks of land or micro-farming could be an area we could
look into as part of the grassroots or niche farm to table movement. The group agreed logging
Page | 2

Powhatan County Comp Plan Citizen Workgroup
Regular Meeting
February 18, 2025
was already prevalent in the county and agrivoltaics was not a popular option among farmers as
the solar farms are more spread out to allow for more sunlight which then takes up more land.
Mrs. Salerno went over the Proudly Powhatan project created last year within the Economic
Development Dept to help smaller farmers or producers have the opportunity to showcase their
goods to a wider audience.
Before moving on, Mrs. Salerno clarified that she was ok to start working through Chapter 4 and
presenting her changes and updates. Chairman Timberlake agreed and asked that she go ahead
with that task.
b) GIS Layers for Economic Development-Part 2 Review
Mr. Reilly displayed the map layer showing the additional parcels added to the Economic
Prioirty/Light Industrial parcels added by the subcommittee at the most recent meeting. Judes
Ferry Rd/60 area west to north and south of Flatrock had several parcels recommended that the
group discussed.
Mr. Bradbury suggested getting rid of the “gap” area and treat all property owners the same and
focus on a potential project and not the area so much. He noted that the area itself could still
remain and be controlled by setbacks and private water and septic.
Mr. Rissmeyer stated that the subcommittee was trying to make recommendations that Mrs.
Salerno could then market to attract the type of commercial development that was appropriate for
different areas.
Mr. Reilly stated that proper zoning and areas consistent with the comp plan would be something
developers would be looking for when looking for areas to develop for certain businesses but
with that, being sympathetic to the expectations of the citizens and the preservation of certain
areas to maintain the “rural character” so as not to cause ill will among the citizenry.
Mr. Shust commented that the group was charged with making recommendations to the Planning
Commission for review on the Comprehensive Plan and areas changes could be made in order to
get to the 85/15. To do this there are many considerations that have to be looked at which renders
many parcels along the 60-corridor unable to be included, so when they do have parcels that fit
the qualifications, they should be added to the recommendation.
Mr. Melton stated that the intention of the subcommittee was not to take the “gap” area and turn
it into an overdeveloped area, it was to identify parcels that meet the qualifications to potentially
become light industrial or Economic Priority zoned to allow the 85/15 tax base to be met.
Continued discussion among the group about various parcels that could be included as EP.
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Powhatan County Comp Plan Citizen Workgroup
Regular Meeting
February 18, 2025
Mr. Melton made a motion to include parcels 40-38 and 40-67K, 40-62 and 40-63A to the
Economic Priority zoning suggestions.
Mr. Anderson seconded the motion.
Mr. Gregory, Mr. Shust, Mr. Melton, Mr. Schiefer, Mr. Timberlake, Mr. Anderson and Mr.
Bradbury voted Aye. Mr. Donati Sr., Mr. Rissmeyer and Mr. Reilly voted NO.
VOTE 7-3
Motion PASSED
Mr. Shust made a motion to include parcel 41-1 in the Economic Priority zoning designation, but
to include only 98+- acres of 41-1 in the Economic Priority zoning calculations. (Area shown on
screen as motion was being made so all could see the exact area.)
Mr. Rissmeyer seconded the motion.
Mr. Gregory, Mr. Shust, Mr. Melton, Mr. Schiefer, Mr. Timberlake, Mr. Reilly, Mr. Anderson,
Mr. Rissmeyer, Mr. Bradbury voted Aye. Mr. Donati Sr. abstained from the vote.
VOTE 9-0-1
Motion PASSED

Discussion continued with additional parcels 39-99, 39-98A, 39-98 being reclassified from
Gateway to Economic Priority. 27-16 was suggested to move back to A-10 so it was removed
from the calculations on the spreadsheet. Additionally, parcels off Mitchell Rd 26-119, 26-120,
26-107A, 26-123 and 26-124 were added to Economic Priority but 26-111 was intentionally left
off. 26-77 and 26-77D were not included and left in Gateway designation due to being at the 522
intersection.
Recommended parcels were added to the spreadsheet calculations which brought the total to the
85/15 target calculation.
Mr. Melton made a motion to accept the plan as presented to move on from the Future Land Use
Map and move to other Economic Development discussions.
Mr. Scheifer seconded the motion.
VOTE 10-0
Motion PASSED
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Powhatan County Comp Plan Citizen Workgroup
Regular Meeting
February 18, 2025

c) Identifying Commerce Center/Light Industrial Uses in Conflict with
Recommendations
.
4. Adjourn
Mr. Shust made the motion to adjourn. Seconded by First Sargeant Gregory.

Meeting adjourned 8:06 PM

These minutes approved by motion and second at the March 4, 2025, meeting of
the Comprehensive Plan Citizen Work Group.

Jamie Timberlake, Chairman
Comprehensive Plan Citizen Work Group

ATTEST:
Ligon Webb, Clerk
Comprehensive Plan Citizen Work Group

Page | 5

Part II: Plan Elements

Chapter 4: Economic Development
Overview

Background

The county’s posi on as a rural county on the western edge of the
Richmond Metro Region creates unique opportuni es and challenges
regarding economic development. However, the rural landscapes
create opportuni es for agri‐business, outdoor recrea on, and
tourism that are not present in nearby urban coun es.

Employment Sectors
The top employment sectors are government, construc on, and retail
trade. The Virginia Employment Commission reports more than 8,000
jobs in the county (as of the third quarter of 2024). The Top Ten
largest employers are:

Economic development is an important component of the
comprehensive plan. A sustainable local economy is associated with
other goals and objec ves of this plan, and is a pivotal element of the
county’s vision for the future. The physical components of economic
development, such as iden fying appropriate loca ons for business
development, are addressed in Chapter 8: Land Use and Community
Character, while the infrastructure improvements needed for
effec ve economic development are addressed in Chapter 6:
Infrastructure and FaciliƟes. Furthermore, recommenda ons
regarding natural and cultural preserva on must be balanced with
the need to create a sustainable economy. The economic
development priori es and other elements of the plan must be
integrated to achieve the plan’s vision. This chapter iden fies key
issues regarding economic development. Recommended strategies
address the direc on the county will take to achieve the economic
development goals and objec ves.

 Powhatan County School Board;
 Colony Construc on;
 Deep Meadow Correc onal Center;  2150 Management Co.
 Powhatan County;
 Food Lion
 Wal‐Mart;
 Independence Golf Club
 Mid‐Atlan c Steel Erectors;
 Layman Brothers Insula on
The service industry has shown the largest increase of any
employment sector, a trend consistent with the general U.S.
economy. Construc on jobs have also increased, reflec ve of the
significant growth the county has experienced since the early 1990s.
The county has also increased employment in the manufacturing
sector.
Commu ng
Many residents leave Powhatan County for work. Based on commuter
data from 2022:



1,584 residents both live and work in the county.



10,418 residents leave Powhatan County each day for work,
with most commu ng to the City of Richmond, Henrico County,
or Chesterfield County.



4,137 workers commute from other locali es to Powhatan
County, with most commu ng from the City of Richmond,
Chesterfield County, and Henrico County.

21

Powhatan County, Virginia: 2021 Long‐Range Comprehensive Plan

Unemployment Rates
Employment trends in Powhatan County show unemployment rates
that are typically lower than Virginia and the U.S. as a whole. In
December 2024, Powhatan County had an unemployment rate of 2.1
percent, the lowest rate since 2007. This rate was below the state (3.0
percent) and na onal (4.0 percent) unemployment rates.

Business Growth
In recent years, the county has experienced the growth of small
commercial establishments along with residen al growth. As of the
third quarter of 2024, there are 877 employers in Powhatan County,
570 of which have four employees or less.

Table 6: Non‐Farm Employment

Sector

1993

2008

2018

2020

2024

Change

% Change

(1993 –
2024)

(1993 –
2024)

Agricultural Services, Forestry and Fishing

174

32

29

37

40

‐134

‐77%

Mining

16

n/a*

n/a*

n/a*

n/a*

n/a

Construc on

886

1,222

1,315

1,548

1,881

995

112.3%

Manufacturing

132

200

268

221

273

141

106.8%

Transporta on and Public U li es

143

97

46

47

55

‐88

‐62%

Wholesale Trade

108

156

185

140

292

184

170.3%

Retail Trade

517

429

764

806

859

342

66.1%

Finance, Insurance, Real Estate

193

192

166

183

224

31

16.1%

Services**

868

1,494

2,518

2,350

2,366

1498

172.6%

Government

1,760

2,320

1,701

1,677

1,724

‐36

‐2.0%

Total

4,797

6,142

6,992

7,009

7,714

2917

60.8%

*Nondisclosable data.
**This category includes the following service‐related industries, as defined by the Virginia Employment Commission: Professional, ScienƟfic, and Technical Services; Management of
Companies and Enterprises; AdministraƟve and Support and Waste Management; EducaƟonal Services; Health Care and Social Assistance; Arts, Entertainment, and RecreaƟon;
AccommodaƟon and Food Services; Other Services (except Public AdministraƟon); Informa on and Unclassified.
Sources:
Powhatan Community Profile: Virginia Employment Commission, 2009, March 2017, May 2019, and January 2021.

22

Part II: Plan Elements

Regional Proximity
Powhatan County is located outside of the economic core of the Richmond Metropolitan Region,
but Routes 60, 288, and 522 provide access to major employment and retail centers in
surrounding coun es. These regional connec ons, along with the county’s proximity to
fast‐growing areas in western Chesterfield County, create economic development opportuni es.
Access to major highways a racts commercial and industrial development.

Industrial Opera on in Powhatan County

Powhatan County’s proximity to the Richmond Metropolitan Region also provides businesses
and residents with access to regional ameni es. Richmond Interna onal Airport is less than a
one‐hour drive from most of Powhatan County. Virginia Commonwealth University, the
University of Richmond, Reynolds Community College and John Tyler Community College, J.
Sargeant Reynolds Community College and other colleges and universi es are a short drive
away.

Infrastructure
While most of Powhatan County lacks access to public u li es, water and sewer are provided or
planned for key areas along Route 60 and near the Route 711/Route 288 interchange. Water,
sewer, and broadband are essen al to economic development success. While broadband is
available along the Rt. 60 corridor, there are por ons of the County that don’t have this service
which affects homebased businesses that historically have turned into brick and mortar
businesses in the County. Routes 60, 288, and 522 provide regional connec ons to neighboring
locali es, allowing goods and materials to be easily transported.
Quarry in Eastern Powhatan County

In 2021 the County entered into a partnership with FireFly Broadband and Dominion Energy to
significantly expand broadband access in the County. Broadband has been expanded into
various unserved areas of the County since 2021 and con nues to be underway to serve all
areas.

Popula on and Growth
The county has experienced significant growth over the last twenty years. The popula on
growth brought an older popula on and increased market demand for local businesses. A
balance of employment opportuni es will also be important to keep pace with the growing
popula on and changing skill sets. The county should a ract employment that is compa ble
with the popula on to decrease commu ng to other coun es.

Business Opening in Powhatan County
23

Powhatan County, Virginia: 2021 Long‐Range Comprehensive Plan

Goal: Economic Development
Powhatan County will have a diverse and balanced economy that supports sustained business and employment opportuni es for its ci zens and
a racts revenues from outside the county to generate further income to fund high‐quality county government services.

Objec ves and Strategies: Economic Development
Objec ve ED.1
Strive to move closer to a commercial/
residen al tax base valua on of at least 15% /
85% in order to be able to fund infrastructure
and community facili es in a
fiscally‐sustainable manner.

Strategy ED.1.a
Develop a forecast to plot progress and future projec ons to achieve the desired 85/15 tax split.
Strategy ED.1.b
Iden fy adequate land for which infrastructure can be provided, and determine the most appropriate
method for marke ng the proper es for economic development.
Strategy ED.1.c
Manage residen al growth through implementa on of the land use plan and revision to land
development regula ons.

Objec ve ED.2

Strategy ED.2.a

Encourage the development of quality
“product” and associated infrastructure that is
a rac ve to business and industry.

Development and promote programs and incen ves to s mulate new development ac vi es that
strengthens the inventory of industrial and commercial sites.
Strategy ED.2.b
Con nue to monitor and/or modify design standards outlined in the County’s Zoning Ordinance to
ensure clarity of requirements, cost‐effec ve implementa on and opportuni es.
Strategy ED.2.c
Maintain regular and open communica on with members of the Development Community to gain
input regarding policy changes, processes, fee adjustments, etc.
Strategy ED.2.d
Explore partnerships and sharing of infrastructure costs with area developers that help meet the
County’s long‐term economic development goals.

25

Part II: Plan Elements

Objec ves and Strategies: Economic Development
Objec ve ED.3

Strategy ED.3.a

Increase the number and variety of jobs in the
county through the reten on and a rac on of
quality commercial enterprises.

Develop a consistent, focused, and visible communica ons campaign targe ng quality commercial
enterprises.
Strategy ED.3.b
Provide support services, u li es, and high‐tech infrastructure to facilitate growth of businesses.
Strategy ED.3.c
Provide a fast‐track program for the county economic development services addressing rezoning,
u lity connec ons, site review, and state and local government department reviews. If local
government staff limita ons prohibit fast‐track ac on, private sector contract assistance should be
used.

Objec ve ED.4

Strategy ED.4.a

Develop and support programs, processes and Iden fy and implement ways to streamline and improve the County’s development review policies
ac vi es that encourage the expansion and
and procedures.
loca on of sustainable businesses in and to the
County.
Strategy ED.4.b
Provide staff assistance to guide businesses through County development processes.
Strategy ED.4.c
Retain and expand the Business Reten on and Expansion program.
Strategy ED.4.d
Develop and implement business measures (business zones and incen ves) that would be a rac ve
to prospec ve businesses.

26

Powhatan County, Virginia: 2021 Long‐Range Comprehensive Plan

Objec ves and Strategies: Economic Development
Objec ve ED.5
Retaining exis ng businesses is of high
priority, the present employers and job
opportuni es should be maintained and
enhanced.

Strategy ED.5.a
Strive to retain exis ng businesses and industries in the county and encourage their viability and growth
through systema c outreach and communica on.
Strategy ED.5.b
Encourage con nued par cipa on by local business owners in communica ng their needs and
iden fying public policies that sustain a business‐friendly local government.
Strategy ED.5.c
Consider implica ons on exis ng businesses when considering the costs and benefits of providing
incen ves to new or compe ng business growth.
Strategy ED.5.d
Iden fy exis ng local businesses that can be used in marke ng the county as a niche business market.
Strategy ED.5.e
Iden fy exis ng local businesses that could par cipate in a farm‐to‐table program with regional
restaurants, groceries, and farmers’ markets.
Strategy ED.5.f
Allow the con nued opera on of non‐conforming industrial and commercial uses, but do not encourage
expansion at these sites, unless adequate public facili es or mi ga on efforts can be made to ensure
minimal impacts on the surrounding streets, communi es, and infrastructure.

Objec ve ED.6

Strategy ED.6.a
Generate revenue from outdoor recrea on, Encourage and facilitate outdoor recrea on opportuni es that offer unique and quality opportuni es for
ci zens and tourists.
quality lodging and agribusinesses.
Strategy ED.6.b
Provide support services, u li es, and high‐tech infrastructure to facilitate growth of businesses.
Strategy ED.6.c
Provide a fast‐track program for the county economic development services addressing rezoning, u lity
connec ons, site review, and state and local government reviews. If local government staff limita ons
prohibit fast‐track ac on, private sector contract assistance should be used.
27

Part II: Plan Elements

Objec ves and Strategies: Economic Development
Objec ve ED.7

Strategy ED.7.a

Support agriculture, forestry, and agribusiness
enterprises.

Coordinate with Virginia Tech Extension and the Chamber of Commerce to enhance tradi onal and
emerging sustainable agriculture‐based enterprises.
Strategy ED.7.b
Allow more flexibility to start new agricultural ac vity within the community in various zoning
districts.
Strategy ED.7.c
Recognize agriculture as a valuable part of the community’s culture, landscape, history, and economy,
and provide no ce that while farming can cause noise, dust, odors, these are not nuisances if best
management prac ces are being applied.
Strategy ED.7.d
Permit and encourage the con nued use of land for agriculture, farming, dairying, pasturage,
apiculture, hor culture, floriculture, and animal and poultry husbandry in areas currently under such
use.
Strategy ED.7.e
Support exis ng and poten al agricultural uses. Review current and forthcoming regula ons and
evaluate them to ensure they are not an obstacle to agricultural uses.
Strategy ED.7.f
In order to preserve the county’s rural character and heritage, support agribusinesses, including
farms, forestry opera ons, agritourism, and ecotourism. Evaluate obstacles to, and incen ves for, the
crea on and/or expansion of these businesses.
Strategy ED.7.g
Support the crea on of unique eco‐tourism businesses.

28

Sec. 83-250. - Light Industrial (I-1) District
A. Purpose.

Typical Development Form

The purpose of the Light Industrial (I-1) District is to accommodate light industrial uses that are
small-scale or generally can be operated with minimal adverse impacts on the environment and
surrounding uses (e.g., from dust, fumes, smoke, odors, noise, or vibration, or due to exterior
movement of vehicle, materials, and goods). Such light industrial uses include limited
manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, processing, and research and development uses, as well as
functionally related distribution, warehousing, and industrial service uses. The district also
accommodates limited small-scale commercial uses (e.g., flex buildings and ancillary commercial
uses serving district businesses and their employees), as well as vehicle service uses and other
commercial uses that may be incompatible in other districts (e.g., commercial kennels). District
development is intended to include roadways designed to accommodate delivery and distribution
truck traffic generated by industrial and commercial uses, and to provide buffers from surrounding
neighborhoods to the extent needed to mitigate potential impacts.
C. Intensity and Dimensional Standards.1
Lot area, minimum
n/a
Lot width, minimum n/a
Typical Lot Layout
Density, maximum
n/a
Lot coverage, maximum
50%
Structure height, maximum 45 ft. 2
Front yard depth,
minimum
Lots fronting on Rt. 60 75 ft. 3, 4
Abutting all districts 25 ft. 3, 4
Side yard depth and rear yard depth, minimum
25 ft. 4
Notes: ac = acre(s) ft. = feet
1. See measurement rules and allowed exceptions/variations in Article XII (Interpretations).
2. Maximum structure height may exceed 45 feet with approval of a conditional use permit.
3. Fifty ft. for accessory uses and structures and parking lots.
4. Shared parking and drive aisles may be located within setbacks, side yards, or rear yards.
Sec. 83-251. - Permitted uses.
The following uses are allowable as principal uses by right in the I-1 District, subject to compliance
with any referenced use-specific standards and all other applicable regulations of this chapter:
(1)Forestry and logging;
(2)Greenhouse, nursery, and floriculture production;
(3)Newspaper or magazine publishing;
(4)Radio or television broadcast studio;
(5)Telecommunications facility, collocated;
(6)Vocational or trade school;
(7)Fire or EMS station;
(8)Fire training facility;
(9)Government maintenance, storage, or distribution facility;

(10)Law enforcement facility;
(11)Massage clinic;
(12)Medical or dental clinic;
(13)Medical or dental lab;
(14)Park or greenway;
(15)Helicopter landing facility;
(16)Surface transportation passenger station/terminal;
(17)Utility use, major;(18)Utility use, minor;
(19)Animal grooming;
(20)Veterinary clinic;
(21)Conference or training center;
(22)Data center;
(23)Brewpub;
(24)Restaurant without drive-through service;
(25)Specialty eating or drinking establishment;
(26)Contractor's office;
(27)Professional offices;
(28)Marina, commercial;
(29)Recreation facility, commercial indoor;
(30)Recreation facility, commercial outdoor;
(31)Recreation facility, nonprofit;
(32)Recreation facility, public;
(33)Auction facility;
(34)Convenience store;
(35)Lawn care, pool, or pest control service;
(36)Self-service storage facility;
(37)Automotive painting or body shop;
(38)Automotive repair and servicing;
(39)Automotive wrecker service;
(40)Gas station;
(41)Parking lot or parking structure (as a principal use);
(42)Taxi or limousine service facility;
(43)Tire sales and mounting;
(44)Commercial landscape operation;
(45)Educational, scientific, or industrial research and development;
(46)Commercial industrial services;
(47)General industrial services;
(48)Heavy equipment repair and servicing;
(49)Heavy equipment sales, rental, or storage;
(50)Metal-working, welding, pipe fitting, or woodworking;
(51)Moving and storage establishment;
(52)Printing or other similar reproduction facility;
(53)Woodworking;
(54)Bottling plant;
(55)Brewery or distillery;
(56)Manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication, light;
(57)Artisan food and beverage production;
(58)Micro-brewery or micro-distillery;

(59)Winery;
(60)Outdoor storage (as a principal use);
(61)Truck or freight terminal;
(62)Warehouse, distribution or storage; minor
(63)Convenience center, county;
(64)Recycling drop-off center;
(65)Wholesale trade establishment;
(66)Shed sales, outdoors;
(67)Wood and stump recycling business;
(68)Contractor's storage yard.
(Ord. No. O-2013-14, 2-3-14; Ord. No. O-2019-05, 1-28-19; Ord. No. O-2021-13, 6-28-21; Ord. No.
O-2022-26, 6-27-22; Ord. No. O-2022-27, 6-27-22)

Sec. 83-252. - Conditional uses.
The following uses are allowable as principal uses in the I-1 District only on approval of a
conditional use permit and subject to any referenced use-specific standards and all other
applicable regulations of this chapter:
(1)Sawmill, commercial;
(2)Telecommunications tower;
(3)Civic center;
(4)Place of worship;
(5)Animal shelter/pound;
(6)Kennel, commercial;
(7)Business service establishment;
(8)Amusement park;
(9)Motorsports park;
(10)Shooting range, commercial;
(11)Truck stop;
(12)Truck hauler business;
(13)Fuel oil or bottled gas distribution or storage;
(14)Manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication, heavy;
(15)Junkyard/salvage yard;
(16)Child day care center;
(17)Minor meat processing;
(18)Solar energy farm.
(Ord. No. O-2013-14, 2-3-14; Ord. No. O-2022-20, 5-23-22; Ord. No. O-2023-28, § 1, 12-18-23; Ord.
No. O-2023-27, § 3, 7-22-24)

Sec. 83-240. - Commerce Center (CC) District
A. Purpose.
The purpose of the Commerce Center (CC) District is to accommodate a wide range of retail,
service, office, and institutional uses that provide goods and services serving the residents and
businesses in the community at large (e.g., most retail sales and services uses, small- to mediumsized shopping centers, restaurants, office buildings, recreational and entertainment uses, hotels,
places of worship, medical clinics). The district is also intended to accommodate low-impact light
industrial uses. Design standards are intended to ensure uses and development are pedestrianfriendly and relate to the street and are compatible with surrounding development.
C. Intensity and Dimensional Standards. 1
Lot area, minimum
10,000 s.f.
Lot width, minimum 60 ft.
Density, maximum
n/a
Lot coverage, maximum
60%
Gross floor area, maximum n/a
Structure height, maximum 35 ft. Typical Lot Layout
Front yard
depth, minimum
Along major arterials, excluding limited access roads 75 ft. 3
Along minor arterial 50 ft. 4
Along rural collector roads
35 ft. 5
Lots abutting internal/local roads
10 ft. 6
Side yard depth, minimum
n/a
Rear yard depth, minimum
10 ft. 2
Corner lot yard depth, minimum
10 ft.
Notes: ac = acre(s) ft. = feet
1. See measurement rules and allowed exceptions/variations in Article XII (Interpretations).
2. Three ft. for accessory uses and structures.
3. Fifty ft. for accessory uses and parking lots.
4. Thirty-five ft. for accessory uses and parking lots.
5. Twenty ft. for accessory uses and parking lots.
6. Ten ft. for accessory uses and parking lots.
Sec. 83-241. - Permitted uses.
The following uses are allowable as principal uses by right in the CC District, subject to compliance
with any referenced use-specific standards and all other applicable regulations of this chapter:
(1)Forestry and logging;
(2)Greenhouse, nursery, and floriculture production;
(3)Dwelling, live/work;
(4)Assisted living facility;
(5)Hospice facility;
(6)Telecommunications facility, collocated;
(7)Community center;
(8)Library;
(9)Museum;

(10)Adult day care center;
(11)Child day care center;
(12)Private school;
(13)Vocational or trade school;
(14)Courthouse facility;
(15)Government administrative offices;
(16)Government maintenance, storage, or distribution facility;
(17)Law enforcement facility;
(18)Post office;
(19)Massage clinic;
(20)Medical or dental clinic;
(21)Medical or dental lab;
(22)Medical treatment facility;
(23)Community garden;
(24)Park or greenway;
(25)Club or lodge;
(26)Place of worship;
(27)Surface transportation passenger station/terminal;
(28)Utility use, minor;
(29)Animal grooming;
(30)Veterinary clinic;
(31)Business service establishment;
(32)Bar or lounge;
(33)Brewpub;
(34)Micro-distillery;
(35)Nightclub;
(36)Restaurant with drive-through service;
(37)Restaurant without drive-through service;
(38)Specialty eating or drinking establishment;
(39)Contractor's office;
(40)Professional offices;
(41)Other office facility;
(42)Auditorium or stage theater;
(43)Motion picture theater;
(44)Recreation facility, commercial indoor;
(45)Recreation facility, nonprofit;
(46)Recreation facility, public;
(47)Antique store;
(48)Art gallery;
(49)Arts, crafts, music, dance, photography, or martial arts studio/school;
(50)Auction facility;
(51)Bank or financial institution with drive-through service;
(52)Bank or financial institution without drive-through service;
(53)Check cashing establishment;
(54)Convenience store;
(55)Drugstore or pharmacy with drive-through service;
(56)Drugstore or pharmacy without drive-through service;
(57)Farmers' market;

(58)Funeral home;
(59)Grocery store;
(60)Large retail sales establishment;
(61)Lawn care, pool, or pest control service;
(62)Liquor store;
(63)Personal services establishment;
(64)Shopping center;
(65)Tattoo or body piercing establishment;
(66)Taxidermy shop;
(67)Other retail sales establishment;
(68)Automotive painting or body shop;
(69)Automotive repair and servicing;
(70)Automotive wrecker service;
(71)Car wash or auto detailing;
(72)Gas station;
(73)Parking lot or parking structure (as a principal use);
(74)Taxi or limousine service facility;
(75)Tire sales and mounting;
(76)Vehicle/equipment sales or rental;
(77)Hotel or motel;
(78)Convenience center, county;
(79)Recycling drop-off center;
(80)Conference or training center;
(81)Fire or EMS station;
(82)Shed sales, outdoor;
(83)Artisan food and beverage production.
Sec. 83-242. - Conditional uses.
The following uses are allowable as principal uses in the CC District only on approval of a
conditional use permit and subject to any referenced use-specific standards and all other
applicable regulations of this chapter:
(1)Telecommunications tower;
(2)College or university;
(3)Hospital;
(4)Cemetery;
(5)Public square or plaza;
(6)Civic center;
(7)Utility use, major;
(8)Adult book or video store;
(9)Adult motion picture theater;
(10)Animal shelter;
(11)Pound;
(12)Kennel, commercial;
(13)Arena, stadium, or amphitheater;
(14)Country club;
(15)Marina, commercial;
(16)Recreation facility, commercial outdoor;

(17)Flea market;
(18)Self-service storage facility;
(19)Truck hauler business;
(20)Commercial landscape operation;
(21)Manufacturing, assembly, or fabrication, light;
(22)Wood and stump recycling business;
(23)Contractor's storage yard.

February 28, 2025
To: CWG
From: Ligon Webb, Planning Director
RE: Powhatan County: Population & Housing Data

Population
Year

Population

Percent Increase (%)

1970

7696*

1980

13,062

69.7

1990

15,328

17.3

2000

22,377

46.0

2010

28,133

25.7

2020

30,033

6.8

2024

31,873**

6.1

2030

32,152**

0.8

2040

35,598**

10.7

2050

39,576**

11.1

* US Census Bureau
** Estimates from UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center

In Powhatan, the median Age of residents in 2000 was 37 years, in 2023 it
was 45.3 years.
In Virginia, the median age of residents in 2000 was 35.7 years, in 2023 it
was 38.8 years.

1

In Powhatan, in 2023 the percentage of population under 18 years of age
was 18.5 percent; in Virginia, this number was 21.6 percent.
Total Housing Units
Year

# Units

% Change

1990

4,723

2000

7,509

58.9

2010

11,841

57.6

2023

12,237

3.3

Source: US Census Bureau

Total New SFD Permits Issued
Year

# Issued

% Change

2016

205

2017

223

13.6

2018

197

(15.4)

2019

238

20.8

2020

209

(-12.1)

2021

213

1.9

2022

220

3.29

2023

143

(35.4)

2024

115

(19.5)

In 2022, 91.2% of the housing units in Powhatan County were owner
occupied.
In 2019, ~94% of all housing units were single-family dwellings (since, this
% has likely lowered slightly)

2

Powhatan
Powhatan

3

2/28/2025: No listings under 300K, 7 listings 300K – 400K, 15 listings 400K –
600K; and 46 listings 600k to No MAX

Feb 2025 - 1.4 acres

$310,000 - Jan 2025 - 3/2, 1169 sq ft, 2.1 acres

$340,000 - Feb 2025, 3/2, 1100 sq ft, 1.9 acres

$419,000 - Jan 2025, 3/2, 1,800 sq ft, 2.2 acres (New)
4

$522,000 – Jan 2025 – 3/3, 2,300 sq ft., 2.5 acres

$630,000 - Jan 2025 - 4/3, 2,780 sq ft, 2 acres

Population and Housing Summary: Powhatan County has experienced significant
population growth since 1970, with the population increasing from 7,696 in 1970 to an
estimated 31,873 in 2024. Projections suggest continued growth, with the population
expected to reach 39,576 by 2050. The median age of residents has risen from 37 years in
2000 to 45.3 years in 2023, with a smaller percentage of the population under 18 compared
to the state average.
Housing in the county has also grown substantially. The number of housing units has
increased from 4,723 in 1990 to 12,237 in 2023, reflecting an overall growth of 158%. Singlefamily detached (SFD) housing has been the dominant housing type, with 91.2% of units
being owner-occupied as of 2022. The number of new SFD permits issued each year
fluctuates, with a peak of 238 permits in 2019 and a decline to 115 permits in 2024.
The county's real estate market shows a range of home prices, with recent listings reflecting
the growing demand, with homes priced between $300,000 and $630,000 in early 2025. The
real estate market has been shifting, with a larger proportion of listings now exceeding
$600,000.

5