Putnam County residents continue to voice concerns over proposed data center
Residents in Putnam County, West Virginia, are actively opposing a proposed Google data center in Buffalo, raising concerns about light, sound, and water pollution, as well as agricultural impact. A two-hour public comment period was held during a county commission meeting, where residents voiced their disapproval. State legislation, House Bill 2014, has been passed, which reportedly strips local counties of the ability to regulate or enforce existing rules against data centers, specifically regarding noise ordinances, further fueling local concerns.
Residents of Putnam County, West Virginia, packed a county commission meeting in Winfield to express their strong opposition to a proposed data center in Buffalo. The public comment period extended for two hours, indicating the depth of community concern.
The controversy began in March when Google announced its purchase of land in Buffalo for the data center. While Governor Patrick Morrissey stated that Google is expected to cover 100% of the electricity used, residents are primarily worried about the environmental impact. Their concerns include potential light, sound, and water pollution that could negatively affect the community, particularly the local agriculture sector.
Adding to the local residents' frustration is the passage of House Bill 2014 by the state legislature. Opponents argue that this bill effectively strips local county governments of their power to regulate or enforce existing rules, such as noise ordinances, against data centers. Community meetings are reportedly held every other Thursday in various locations to continue addressing these issues.