Life is full of tradeoffs: We can have more data centers and local tax revnue or less tourism and a dirtier environment

See Small-Town Locals and Newcomers Unite Against a Common Foe: Data Centers: Residents in Appalachian tourist area band together to keep one of the largest data-center complexes in the world out of their no-stoplight community by Kris Maher of The WSJ. Excerpts:

"residents [of DAVIS, W.Va.] are . . . determined to keep big tech out of one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse stretches of Appalachia."

"Tourists come here for the dark skies, wildflowers, art galleries, trails and Blackwater Falls. The county has one stoplight—16 miles away.

Similar clashes are happening in other states."

"But West Virginia’s new law is unusual. Boasting the “least restrictive regulatory environment in the nation,” it prohibits local officials from having any input into where off-grid data centers go."

it also "sends 70% of microgrid tax revenue to the state, leaving host counties with 30%."

"[residents] raised concerns about noise, light, air quality and the effect on tourism."

"the Ridgeline project could span 10,000 acres across parts of Tucker and Grant counties."

"Thomas Mayor Jody Flanagan wants more details before taking a position on the project. “If it’s going to be polluting and hurting tourism, that’s a con,” he said. “The pro is the revenue that would come.”" 

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