Proposed data center in Putnam County raises environmental and health concerns

Google is moving forward with plans to construct a data center on a 1,700-acre site north of Buffalo in Putnam County, West Virginia. The proposal has generated considerable alarm among local residents, who fear the project will destroy the area's peaceful nature and lead to significant environmental degradation. Residents like Christopher Potts expressed concerns about sound pollution, water temperature changes, and the release of metals and other chemicals into local water sources. Another resident, Janie Miles, voiced serious health worries, linking the water quality to high rates of cancer among her pets and neighbors, as well as her own diagnosis. These residents are actively protesting the potential impacts on their community and health. In response to some concerns, Governor Patrick Morrisey stated that Google has pledged to cover 100% of the facility's electricity usage and aims to replenish more water than it consumes by 2030. However, Putnam County Commission President Andy Skidmore indicated that the county's influence over the project is limited, as the state will oversee the necessary permitting process. Skidmore acknowledged widespread rumors and resident concerns but noted the county expects to benefit from tax revenues generated by the development. Securing the required permits is expected to take approximately one year before construction can commence.