W.Va. Legislature disputes common community concerns about data centers
News ClipTimes West Virginian·Fairmont, Marion County, WV·5/22/2026
The West Virginia Data Economy Office director, Chris Morris, stated that common community concerns about data centers, such as water, noise, pollution, or energy prices, are not the primary issues. This statement was made before the House of Delegates.
environmentalelectricitygovernment
Gov: W.Va. Legislature, Data Economy Office, House of Delegates
Chris Morris, director of the West Virginia Data Economy Office, addressed the House of Delegates on May 19, 2026. Morris asserted that the perceived problems with data centers, particularly common community concerns like water usage, noise, pollution, or energy prices, are not the actual challenges faced. This suggests the state's Data Economy Office holds a differing view from public sentiment regarding data center impacts.