Data Center Discussion, Ranson Map Confusion, County Approves Fees
Published about 5 hours ago • 13 min read
Observer Weekly
May 21, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
Data Centers were on the agenda for several presentations during this week’s interim session of the WV House of Delegates. There were no new announcements and few voices advocating for any changes to the state’s HB 2014 framework for data center projects, although Chris Morris, the director of the WV Data Economy Office did acknowledge that communication with communities about these projects has been “lacking” so far.
Closer to home, we have to give the City of Ranson credit for identifying and trying to fix problems with its Zoning Map. From the discussion during the City Council meeting this week, it’s unclear if what the Council approved will be the final resolution to a problem that originated many years ago.
The conversation at the Jefferson County Development Authority (JCDA) meeting this week was less collegial, as the board barely had a quorum and several members decided to verbally question the motivation of the one board member who asked probing questions about an agreement that anticipates the County’s involvement with WV American Water to provide services in the Summit Point area.
— Steve Pearson
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First Energy substation in Bedington (Berkeley County)
During an interim session in Charleston on May 18 and 19, the West Virginia House of Delegates heard several presentations on data center projects and the framework for these projects created by the HB 2014 legislation passed in 2025.
Reports From Data Center World Conference
The first set of presentations on May 18 were provided by House staff and several delegates who attended a recent data center industry conference in Washington, DC. The key points from the conference relayed by those speakers were:
The demand for data centers has no visible endpoint and no shortage of investor capital
Access to power is the number one concern for data center developers
Data centers want to plug into the existing grid, with less interest in micro-grids that can take years to build
There is a lot of interest in using recycled water for new projects
Data center developers are concerned about supply chain constraints and a shortage of skilled labor (electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians)
Delegates Mike Pushkin, Evan Hansen, and Shaun Fluharty, all Democrats, questioned the speakers about pushback on projects due to the lack of local control and transparency baked into the HB 2014 process. Delegate Tristan Leavitt (R-Kanawha) pushed back on those questions, saying that “I didn’t hear any concerns about being open and transparent about what they are doing.”
Regulation & Taxation: The State Perspective
Chris Morris, the director of the state’s Data Economy Office, and Tax Commissioner Max Irby spoke to the delegates on May 19.
Morris echoed the earlier comments that companies want access to power. He also noted that these companies don’t need tax relief, they want speed to market. He downplayed the questions about local control, pointing out that most counties in the state do not have zoning, so his office offers developers a single standard to work with.
Irby highlighted the tax revenue potential of data center projects, but noted that there are no completed projects yet and he offered no specific revenue projections. He did say that the state expects to receive $10 million per year in tax revenue for every “megawatt of real property investment.” Under the HB 2014 framework, the state will determine the valuation of the property investment, so the counties will have to wait a while before they know what revenues they can expect.
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Questions About Ranson’s Boundaries & Zoning Map
Ranson City Council on May 19
After voting to expand its road network this week, the Ranson City Council struggled with what to do about years of poor record keeping as it discussed whether the City has a valid Zoning Map.
During its regular meeting on May 19, the Council took the final step to accept the roads in the Briar Run Estates subdivision. The Council had approved the annexation of the subdivision earlier this spring. According to the terms of the road agreement, the Briar Run Estates Owners Association will provide a $170,000 capital contribution to the City along with the ownership of the roads in the subdivision. The City will assume all maintenance and snow removal responsibilities in the subdivision.
The entire process of the Briar Run annexation and road acquisition took a little under two years to complete. During that time, the City processed half a dozen rezoning requests in other areas of the Ranson. According to the City’s ordinances, each of those rezoning ordinances should have been “entered on the official zoning map promptly” after each Council vote.
According to City Manager Todd Wilt, the current “map has inaccuracies” and the more he researched older versions of the map in the city files back to 2012, the more inconsistencies he found. As he described it, the “record keeping was atrocious” to the point that he could not vouch for the accuracy of any map produced by the City. He also noted that Jefferson County’s GIS maps, which rely on information provided by the City, do not accurately correspond with the written record of the rezoning ordinances.
The Ranson City Council voted 4-3 to accept a map included in the May 19 meeting packet. During the discussion prior to the vote, the Council members noted that map still did not conform to the requirements of the City’s ordinance and called out what appeared to be specific discrepancies between their recollections of the recent rezonings and what was shown on this new map. The Council members who voted nay did agree that the new map was an improvement, but expressed discomfort at signing off on a document they knew to be inaccurate.
Several of the Council members suggested that the Council schedule a public hearing on this “improved, but not perfect” map as a way of identifying and resolving any outstanding discrepancies so that the City could end up with a definitive map that could be trusted going forward.
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Jefferson County Government Center gets a new sign
The Jefferson County Commission combined its regular May meetings into a single session on May 21.
The Commission spent the first half hour of the meeting focused on recognizing county staff and community members. For the staff, the Commission noted employees who participated in a new certificate program established with the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College to train individuals in government operations and leadership. Fifteen county employees were recognized for completing the inaugural class of the program: Andrew Beall, David Bound, Mason Carter, Lynn Dillow, Roger Goodwin, Jessica Gormont, Jessica James, David Kling, Laura Kuhn, Dick Myers, Jennifer Myers, Will Smith, Dean Thomas, Tara Vann, and Rhonda Willingham.
The Commission also issued proclamations recognizing the contributions of two community leaders. Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix was recognized for her decade of service as the president of Shepherd University and Dr. Terrence Reidy was recognized for his six years of leadership of the Jefferson County Health Department. Both are retiring in June.
Health Department Fees To Increase
The Commission accepted a recommendation from the Board of Health and voted to update the Health Department’s permit and inspection fee schedule. These fees were last adjusted in 2024. The various well, septic, food service, and other inspections covered by these fees are required by state law, so the Health Department needs to staff its inspection program to meet the demands for new construction projects and business licensing. Since the Health Department receives only a small amount of funding from the County, these permit and inspection fees are the primary funding for the department. The new fee schedule is effective immediately and will be posted on the Health Department website.
Budget and Possible Salary Adjustments
The Commission voted to approve a budget revision for the current fiscal year ending in June (the ninth revision so far this year). These revisions were described as minor adjustments within each department. Next year’s budget (beginning on July 1) was also adjusted to reflect the final medical insurance rates negotiated by the County. According to County Administrator Edwina Benites-LM, the initial insurance renewal projected almost a $1 million increase in cost to the County. Following extensive negotiations the County costs will remain flat with only a small increase in the dental premium paid by employees of approximately $1/month.
The Commission started a discussion about increasing the annual salary of the County Administrator by $40,000, but deferred it to the next meeting due to a concern that the request had not been properly noticed prior to the meeting. The agenda request form included in the meeting packet provided a motion to change the salary of Ms. Benites-LM from $136,259 to $176,259, effective May 26. However, the meeting agenda published earlier this week did not include the request, so the Commission’s attorney recommended deferring the item to a future meeting.
Historic Preservation Regulations Revised
The Commission voted to update the County Subdivision Regulations regarding historic preservation requirements for major subdivision projects. The existing regulations include a requirement for a “Phase 1 Archeological Study” for these projects, which specifies both a research component and an excavation component according to the state guideline referenced in the County regulation.
The existing County regulation allows for waivers to the archeological study requirement if requested by the developer. Most of the projects undertaken since this regulation has been in effect have requested and received waivers, due to the significant expense of the excavation effort.
The County Commission sent a request to the Planning Commission in 2024, asking for recommendation on revisions, citing the frequent waiver requests. After receiving an initial recommendation that kept the requirement for the research component but removed the excavation requirement, the County Commission then asked the Planning Commission to review the proposed changes with the Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC). The Planning Commission and HLC did have one joint meeting in March, but were unable to come to a consensus on any further changes that would include any excavation requirement, so the Planning Commission sent the same “research only” recommendation back to the County Commission for approval at today’s meeting.
Following the 3-2 vote to remove the excavation requirement (Commissioners Majdi, Mood and Stolipher voted for the change, Commissioners Hefestay and Keys voted against), the Commission voted unanimously to invite the Historic Landmarks Commission to present a proposal for assisting landowners with identifying potential historic resources.
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County Commission Shares Update On Hill Top House — During its May 21 meeting, the Jefferson County Commission voted to engage the Bowles Rice law firm to develop bond documents for the Hill Top House TIF (tax increment financing) and STIF (sales tax increment financing) districts. The Commission had previously approved the special tax districts in 2023, but the state legislature did not give its approval until this spring. Responding to questioning from Commission President Pasha Majdi, County Administrator Edwina Benites-LM said that the Hill Top House project was ready to begin construction. SWaN & Legend Venture Partners, the company developing the Hill Top House Hotel project, has not yet released any official announcement about the next steps for the project.
JCDA Plans Partnership With American Water — The Jefferson County Development Authority voted on May 19 to retain the Bowles Rice law firm to work on a partnership agreement with WV American Water to “develop water utility improvements within Jefferson County.” The JCDA action this week follows its discussions earlier this spring about a water and sewer project in Summit Point. JCDA board member Kathy Skinner questioned JCDA Executive Director Daryl Cowles about the scope of the utility project and the budget for the legal services. Cowles, who was hired by the County in April, noted that the discussions about the Summit Point project had occurred prior to his tenure with the JCDA and he was unable to provide more detail.
Ranson Elections — The City of Ranson is holding elections to fill four City Council seats. Election Day is Tuesday, June 2. Early voting is available until Saturday, May 30. The single voting location is at the city hall (312 South Mildred Street). The early voting hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and also Saturdays (May 23 & May 30) 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. On election day, the polling location will be open from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. Election information is available on the town’s website (RansonWV.gov).
Shepherdstown Elections — The Town of Shepherdstown is holding elections to fill the office of Mayor, Recorder and five seats on the Town Council. Election Day is Tuesday, June 2. Early voting is available until Saturday, May 30. The single voting location is at the town hall (104 North King Street). The early voting hours are Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm and Saturdays (May 23 & May 30) 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. On election day, the polling location will be open from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. Election information is available on the town’s website (Shepherdtown.gov).
School Budget hearing — The Jefferson County Board of Education will hold a public hearing on next year’s proposed school budget on Tuesday, May 26. The public hearing on the budget will begin at 5:00 pm in the Washington High School auditorium, prior to the regular Board of Education meeting which will begin at 6:00 pm. The meeting agenda is online at the school board website.
Arts, Culture & Community Events
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Dear Jack, Dear Louise — Romantic comedy set in the 1940s presented by Brooks Productions. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 700 New York Ave, Martinsburg. Thursday, May 21–Saturday, May 23, times vary. $ Tickets & Info…
Crafty Storytime — Children’s storytime and craft event for ages 3+. Bolivar-Harpers Ferry Public Library, 151 Polk St, Harpers Ferry. Friday, May 22, 11 am-noon. Free. Info…
Live Music: INDIGENOUS — Live performance as part of the Levitt AMP Shenandoah Junction Music Series. The AMP at Sam Michaels Park, 235 Sam Michaels Drive, Shenandoah Junction. Friday, May 22, gates open 6 pm, music starts 7 pm. Free. Info…
Back Alley Garden Tour Plein Air Painters Exhibit Opening Reception — Opening reception for an exhibit featuring work created during the Back Alley Garden Tour & Tea by Walt Bartman & Goldfinch Studio Painters. Bridge Gallery, 8566 Shepherdstown Pike, Shepherdstown. Friday, May 22, 5-8 pm. Free. Info…
Live Music: Dara James and the Soul Disciples — Blues, soul, funk, and R&B performance by the award-winning Central Virginia-based trio. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Friday, May 22, 7:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Great Boonsboro Rescue Company Carnival — Community carnival with food, rides, and nightly live music. Shafer Park, 37 Park Dr, Boonsboro, MD. Friday, May 22–Saturday, May 30. $ Tickets & Info…
Steel Magnolias — Community theater production of the classic play. Apollo Civic Theater, 128 East Martin St, Martinsburg. May 22-24 and 29-31, times vary. $ Tickets & Info…
Paw Paw Car, Truck & Tractor Show — 19th annual Memorial Day Weekend event features parade, live jazz music, memorial ceremony, food, crafts, and awards for vehicles. Paw Paw Schools, 60 Pirate Circle, Paw Paw WV. Saturday, May 23, 9 am-2 pm. Free admission for spectators. Info…
History Event: Arming the American Soldier — Living history and educational programming focused on Harpers Ferry’s role in weapons manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. Harpers Ferry National Park. Saturday, May 23, 11 am-4 pm. Free with Park admission. Info…
Friends & Family Game Night — Community game night for families and friends. The Hobbies Shop, 305 South West St, Charles Town. Saturday, May 23, 6-9 pm. Free. Info…
Memorial Day Parade — Annual Memorial Day parade through Bolivar and Harpers Ferry followed by a ceremony at Harpers Ferry Middle School. Monday, May 25, 9 am. Free. Info…
Ongoing
Hiatt Art Collection Exhibit & Silent Auction — Exhibit features works from the Bill and Donna Hiatt collection, with items available for sale via silent auction to benefit Friends of Shepherdstown Library and its support for the library. Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown. The exhibit runs until May 30 during library open hours. Free. Info…
St. Isidore Market — Weekly market featuring local vendors offering produce and handmade goods. St. James Catholic Church, 49 Crosswinds Dr, Charles Town. Thursdays, year-round, 5 - 6:30 pm. Free. Info… Charles Town Farmers Market — Weekly open-air farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods and artisan vendors. South Samuel St between Washington St and Congress St, Charles Town. Saturdays, 9 am-noon. Free. Info…
Shepherdstown Farmers Market — Weekly farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and live music. Behind the Market House, 100 South King St, Shepherdstown. Sundays, 9 am - 1 pm. Free. Info…
Martinsburg Farmers Market — Seasonal farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, and artisan vendors. 125 W King St, Martinsburg, WV. Saturdays, April–October, 10 am - 2 pm. Free. Info…
The Shepherdstown Library plans to install solar panels on the roof of its new building. The library expects to see an immediate payoff from the investment by reducing its monthly electricity bills by 20 to 50 percent (depending on the season).
The estimated cost for the project is $200,000 and the Library already has confirmed funding for almost half of that amount since the project was announced last month. The funding confirmed so far includes:
$50,000 bequest in honor of Dr. Marie Peine
$20,000 from the Town of Shepherdstown
$25,000 from the Library’s reserve funds
The library is now engaging with community members, with a goal to raise the remaining $105,000 by July 4.
Donations can be made by check to the “Shepherdstown Public Library” (145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown WV) or via the online donation portal.
More information about the project is available on the Library’s website.
Judge Dan Greear was appointed to the WV Intermediate Court of Appeals by Governor Jim Justice in Dec 2021.
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