Residents pack into Wheeling City Council chambers to address data center concerns
Residents packed into the Wheeling City Council chambers to voice concerns about a proposed data center at the former Centre Foundry site in Warwood. They questioned the project's impact on utilities and infrastructure, as well as the lack of transparency from elected officials. Mayor Denny Magruder stated that the council is still gathering information and not yet ready to weigh in on the project.
Residents filled the Wheeling City Council chambers during a recent public comment session to address concerns regarding a proposed data center slated for the former Centre Foundry site in Warwood. The primary issues raised by the community included the project's potential impact on local utilities and infrastructure, as well as a perceived lack of transparency from elected officials about the development.
One resident critically stated that the "lack of transparency around the proposed data center and the lack of political will to critically question projects that would severely impact our community" diminished their desire to be a "Wheeling evangelist." The resident called for the council to pass a resolution to clarify its position on data centers.
Following the meeting, Mayor Denny Magruder spoke with 7News for the first time about the project, acknowledging that neither he nor the council have all the "concrete data yet." He assured that the council shares residents' concerns but needs to distinguish "fact and fiction" and consider the legalities involved, noting that the property was sold to a "bonafide buyer." Mayor Magruder indicated that the council is still trying to gather information and is not yet prepared to take a definitive stance.