The Bristol Town Council voted 3-1, Thursday, to advance an ordinance that would annex more than 500 acres of the Kauffman Family Farm for potential industrial development.

The vote did not approve the annexation itself but moved the proposal forward to a second reading. The property is located between County Roads 14 and 19 and would expand Bristol’s town limits by more than 500 acres. The land would also connect with approximately 400 acres nearby that have already been rezoned for industrial use.

The council meeting drew significant public comment, with residents speaking for nearly two hours. Several community members voiced concerns about the possibility of large-scale development on the property, including the construction of a data center. Others said the change could negatively impact nearby property values and argued that residents should not bear the cost of development that would primarily benefit the Kauffman family.

Council President Jeff Beachy acknowledged the proposal could be unpopular but said council members must consider the long-term financial impact for the town. Beachy added that additional tax revenue could help fund fire and police services as well as other infrastructure needs.

The council is expected to hold a second reading and vote on the annexation ordinance on March 19. If the annexation is approved, rezoning discussions could take place as early as May, according to information posted on the Town of Bristol’s Facebook page.