Jefferson County Commission to Host Good Neighbor Data Center Guardrails Workshop

Edwina Benites-LM, county administrator

Email: edwina.c.benitesLM@jeffcowv.gov

CHARLES TOWN, WV (September 16, 2026) – The Jefferson County Commission will host a public workshop on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. titled “Jefferson County Good Neighbor Data Center Guardrails.”

Led by Commissioner Cara Keys and supported by the Jefferson County Commission, the effort will bring together local governments, public agencies, utilities, emergency services, community organizations, residents, and other stakeholders to discuss issues and priorities related to potential data center development in Jefferson County.

The discussion comes as West Virginia moves forward with its Responsible Data Center Development Plan, announced in August. The state framework builds on House Bill 2014 and calls for state-level oversight and development standards for high-impact data centers.

The September 28 workshop will provide an opportunity hear from residents and discuss local considerations that may help inform future conversations surrounding data center development. Topics may include water and power use, transmission infrastructure, roads and transportation, emergency services, land use, noise and lighting, environmental impacts, housing and workforce needs, fiscal impacts, public participation, decommissioning, and community benefits.

“I appreciate the Commission’s support in bringing this conversation forward,” said Commissioner Cara Keys. “This workshop gives us an opportunity to listen to our municipalities, service providers, stakeholders, and residents and better understand the issues that matter most to Jefferson County. As the State continues its work, this is an opportunity for our community to have a thoughtful discussion and share its perspective.”

Members of the public are encouraged to attend the September 28 workshop and provide public comment, especially on issues such as water and power use, roads and infrastructure, emergency services, land use, noise and lighting, environmental impacts, housing and workforce needs, fiscal impacts, decommissioning, community benefits, and any other concerns related to data center development.

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