Panel Explores Data Center Development In State, This West Virginia Morning

A recent panel discussion at Shepherd University in West Virginia, featured on West Virginia Morning, highlighted a growing debate concerning local control over data center development in the state. The discussion revealed significant frustration among local leaders and community members who feel ignored by the current development process, particularly due to House Bill 2014. This legislation, which established the state's microgrid and data center certified program last year, exempts these projects from county or municipal oversight, effectively removing local zoning control. Steve Pearson, editor of the Observer Weekly and the evening's moderator, noted the rapid progression of the data center industry in West Virginia, primarily driven by the legislature with limited community involvement. Do Slesac, Executive Vice President of Utility Innovation for QTS data centers, outlined his company's typical process of community engagement and relationship building, which can span years. However, Amy Margolles, Executive Director of the grassroots coalition Tucker United, countered that this ideal process was a "far cry" from the reality experienced with the Ridgeline facility in Tucker County, where local leaders were surprised by the development's advancement. Margolles stressed the importance of local communities having a seat at the table to ensure a "right process, right place, and a right profit share," noting that while the final version of HB 2014 directs 30% of tax revenue to counties, many residents dependent on tourism and natural beauty question if this compensates for 100% of local costs and impacts. Jefferson County Commissioner Kara Keys echoed these concerns, contrasting West Virginia's lack of local control with Virginia's "data center alley" in Loudoun County. She highlighted how Loudoun County not only benefits from millions in annual revenue but also retains local zoning control, allowing it to adapt to resident needs, such as increasing setback requirements from residential dwellings. Keys, a commercial real estate appraiser, urged the West Virginia legislature to reconsider HB 2014 and re-establish local input. Chris Morris, the state data economy liaison and director of the Data Economy Office for the Department of Economic Development, indicated an openness to adjusting the state's process and suggested creating a local coordinator position to improve communication and address feedback.