This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee dives into one of the most explosive local government stories in recent memory — the Pittsylvania County vs. Balico showdown. Cardinal News reporters Grace Mamon and Tad Dickens join the table to unpack how a proposed data center project sparked six months of controversy, confusion and ultimately, rejection.

But this isn’t just about one county. This is about what happens when the tech industry sets its sights on rural Virginia — and what’s at stake when it does. From rezoning chaos to the looming threat of energy shortages, we explore how data centers are reshaping the future of Southside and Southwest Virginia.

Is this economic development, or is it a ticking time bomb? Tune in for an inside look at the story behind the headlines — and what it means for your power bill.