Dear Editor,
Okay, I can’t put the data center discussion away. If nothing else, giving Joel Rosenthal something comical to read is worthwhile, isn’t it?
I’m aware we are in the throes of a movement to slow the development of AI and data centers because someone has advanced the theory that AI will destroy the world and bring an end to all of humanity. I’m willing to bet that this scare tactic will die for lack of a second. The issue that lives on locally is bigger than AI and data centers; it’s about growth and prosperity in Pocahontas County, WV. A while back, it was the pipeline, and the activists were out with their bumper stickers while others were making ready to reap the economic benefits of hundreds of workers needing goods and services. When Joe Biden killed the pipeline, some cheered; others were saddened. Now, we have data centers. There’s no actual plan to build one here yet, but the concept is being debated. The pro side is arguing jobs and tax revenue. The cons say that life in Pocahontas County will be forever tainted, ruining a way of life, spoiling the environment, and creating too much traffic.
While preserving our pristine natural environment, rural heritage, and quiet lifestyle is important, a “not in my backyard” mentality isn’t a sustainable policy if we’re going to have a thriving local economy.
Maybe data centers aren’t a fit here, but has anyone looked into the potential benefits? Here’s a look:
It could take about 800 simultaneous workers 18 to 36 months to build out a data center. That would include heavy equipment operators, concrete masons, ironworkers, site prep specialists, high-voltage electricians, industrial pipe fitters, HVAC technicians, fiber optic technicians, low-voltage cable installers, mechanical/electrical/plumbing engineers, site safety managers, and more, but you get the drift. These are all high-paying jobs.
Once complete, a data center will need 100 to 200 full-time operators on site. Again, highly paid workers.
And then, there’s the revenue – millions of dollars in taxes for Pocahontas County. That’s millions, lots of zeros with crooked numbers in front.
The cons include high electricity demand. That’s been an issue for data centers across the nation, but it has been suggested that those building data centers in the future must generate their own power. Many questions remain about water needs and environmental impact.
Just take a look! Doesn’t it make sense to do some due diligence? Put out some feelers. Get answers to the questions involved in building a data center. If our local government rejects a data center permit because a few people think keeping Pocahontas County’s population at 9,000 is desirable, then let them tell the school board why a big boost in tax revenue is a bad thing. When you refuse to at least explore the merits of data centers, AI takes on a new meaning: Artificial Ignorance.
Joel Srodes
Marlinton
