WHEELING, W.Va. — Residents filled the Warwood Veterans’ Association building this week to discuss concerns surrounding a proposed data center project and what many described as a lack of local input in the approval process.

The town hall meeting drew community members from across the area, many of whom expressed worries about the potential impact the project could have on their neighborhoods and quality of life.

Among those attending was West Virginia Delegate Shawn Fluharty, who criticized state legislation that he says removed local authority over large development projects such as data centers.

Fluharty told attendees that decisions regarding data center development are now largely controlled at the state level, limiting the ability of local governments and residents to influence the process. He said residents’ frustrations are understandable given the reduced local oversight.

Community members raised a variety of concerns during the meeting, including potential noise levels, energy consumption, water usage, environmental impacts, and possible effects on nearby property values.

Several residents said they are seeking more information about the proposal and want greater transparency regarding the project’s potential impacts on the community.

Others voiced concerns about how a large-scale data center could affect daily life in Warwood, particularly for those living near the proposed site.

Questions also remain about the project’s future. Officials have not publicly identified a developer or confirmed whether construction will move forward. During the meeting, residents discussed reports regarding a possible company interest in the site, but no official announcement has been made.

As discussions continue, many residents said they plan to remain engaged and push for additional information about the proposal before any final decisions are made.

OHIO COUNTY, W.Va. — A former Wheeling Middle School principal accused of felony child abuse appeared in Ohio County Magistrate Court this week, where a judge ruled there was sufficient evidence for the case to move forward to circuit court.

Richard McCardle appeared Tuesday for a probable cause hearing related to allegations stemming from an incident reported earlier this year at Wheeling Middle School.

The case was investigated by the Wheeling Police Department, which filed a felony child abuse charge against McCardle in June following a months-long investigation.

During the hearing, investigators testified about evidence gathered during the case, including surveillance video that was shown in court. According to testimony, the video allegedly shows McCardle physically restraining a student and taking the child to the ground during an incident at the school.

Court testimony indicated the altercation followed disciplinary issues involving the student. Defense attorneys argued McCardle was acting in his role as a school administrator attempting to maintain order and control within the school environment.

The defense also questioned whether the injuries allegedly sustained by the student met the legal threshold required for a felony charge, arguing prosecutors had not presented sufficient evidence of substantial physical pain.

Prosecutors disagreed, contending the student suffered multiple injuries and continued experiencing pain in the days following the incident. They argued the actions shown in the video went beyond reasonable discipline and constituted excessive force.

After hearing testimony from both sides, Magistrate William “Mike” Lemon determined there was enough evidence to establish probable cause and ordered the case bound over to Ohio County Circuit Court for further proceedings.

A circuit court hearing date has not yet been announced.

As with all criminal cases, the charge remains an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

WHEELING, W.Va. — One of the Ohio Valley’s most popular Independence Day traditions is set to return as the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra takes the stage at Heritage Port on July 4 for its annual concert and fireworks celebration.

The free event is part of the region’s ongoing America 250 festivities and is expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors to downtown Wheeling.

Festivities will include food vendors, a beer garden, and live entertainment, with the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra scheduled to begin performing at 8 p.m. This year’s program will feature a blend of patriotic music alongside selections from Broadway and other popular favorites designed to appeal to audiences of all ages.

Organizers say the annual concert has become a summertime tradition for families across the Ohio Valley, bringing the community together to celebrate Independence Day along the waterfront.

Community sponsors continue to support the event, helping ensure the concert remains free and accessible to the public. Local business leaders say investing in community events is an important way to give back while creating opportunities for residents to gather and celebrate together.

Following the concert, a fireworks display over the Ohio River will cap off the evening and provide a festive conclusion to the holiday celebration.

The event is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot along the riverfront.