Lack of local control resonates at discussion of West Virginia’s dive into data centers
News ClipWV MetroNews·WV·4/1/2026
A discussion in West Virginia focused on the state's approach to attracting data centers, highlighting concerns over House Bill 2014, which limits local control over such developments. Panelists debated the balance between statewide standards and the need for local input on projects, citing examples in Tucker, Jefferson, and Berkeley counties. Community and local government representatives expressed a desire for more transparency and participation in decisions affecting their areas.
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QTS
Gov: West Virginia data economy office, West Virginia Legislature, Jefferson County
The State of West Virginia is actively pursuing data center development, with state officials touting significant interest from legitimate companies. However, a recent discussion hosted by The Stubblefield Institute for Civil Political Communications at Shepherd University highlighted growing concerns about a lack of local control over these projects. Chris Morris, director of West Virginia's data economy office, emphasized the state's selective approach to granting High Impact Data Center (HIDC) designations under House Bill 2014, a law passed last year.
HB 2014 aims to attract high-tech companies by allowing them to harness their own power and bypass traditional local regulations, including zoning, noise, and land use restrictions. This aspect of the bill sparked considerable debate among panelists. Jefferson County Commissioner Cara Keys critically noted that the bill allows Charleston (the state capital) to supersede local control, effectively "throwing out the window" existing local frameworks. She argued that while supporting data centers, one could still oppose the lack of guardrails in HB 2014, advocating for the importance of local governance.
Amy Margolies, executive director of Tucker United, further elaborated on the challenges faced by communities. She cited the controversial Ridgeline Facility, a project by Virginia-based Fundamental Data LLC in Tucker County, which proposes a large-scale data center powered by an on-site natural gas plant. Margolies stressed the need for transparency and community participation, stating, "All we’ve been asking for is a seat at the table," and described Tucker County's experience as the opposite of local control.
Conversely, Dado Slezak, Executive Vice President of Utility Innovation for QTS, which is developing a data center campus across Jefferson and Berkeley counties, presented a different approach. He emphasized QTS's commitment to community engagement, listening to local concerns, and tailoring projects to fit local needs. Slezak highlighted the company's focus on local labor and suppliers, suggesting that QTS aims to integrate into communities where its projects are welcomed.