Residents pack council meeting to oppose data center at former Warwood foundry site
Residents in Wheeling, West Virginia, packed a City Council meeting to voice strong opposition to a proposed data center development by Silicon Foundation at the former Centre Foundry site in Warwood. Community members expressed concerns about the lack of transparency from both the company and city officials regarding the project. Mayor Denny Magruder confirmed Silicon Foundation's purchase of the property and stated the city is now focused on gathering facts and seeking outside expertise to make an informed decision for its citizens.
Residents of Wheeling, West Virginia, filled the City Council chambers on Tuesday evening to demand answers and express strong opposition to a proposed data center project. The development, spearheaded by Silicon Foundation, is planned for the site of the former Centre Foundry and Machine Company in the Warwood neighborhood.
Community members, including Aidan Kosol, criticized the lack of transparency from both Silicon Foundation and the city government regarding the project. Speakers raised concerns and pushed for more information about the development, emphasizing a desire to prevent such facilities in their community.
Wheeling Mayor Denny Magruder acknowledged the public's comments and confirmed that Silicon Foundation has indeed purchased the Centre Foundry site. He indicated that the city's immediate focus is to gather comprehensive information about the data center plans, including consulting with third-party experts to thoroughly understand the proposal and its potential impacts. The mayor stated the city's ultimate goal is to make the best decision for Wheeling and its residents.