Concerned Putnam County residents discuss data center fears

In March 2026, Google announced plans to purchase land in Buffalo, Putnam County, West Virginia, for a potential data center, which is currently in its preliminary stages. This development has ignited strong opposition from Buffalo residents who gathered at a town hall meeting to address their concerns. Residents, including Jimmie Meadows, voiced fears regarding the project's potential environmental impact on air, soil, and water, citing limitations imposed by West Virginia's House Bill 2014, which established a framework for similar projects. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey's office has stated that Google will cover necessary electrical, sewer, and water upgrades and has pledged to replenish more water than consumed by 2030, also noting the project's economic and energy generation contributions. However, residents like Bathsheba Dailey highlighted existing water access issues in the county, questioning the allocation of resources to Google when some citizens still haul water from community tanks. Heather Ransom, who led discussions at the meeting, emphasized that Buffalo is not receptive to the data center, urging Google to find a location where they are "welcomed with open arms." The goal of the meeting was to address misinformation and gauge public concern, revealing more widespread opposition than initially anticipated. The group plans to hold further county-wide meetings every two weeks to continue their organized efforts against the project.