OHIO VALLEY — Several stories are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including a new agreement involving the proposed Warwood data center, new details surrounding a fatal Monroe County crash, controversy over license plate-reading cameras and several upcoming community events.
Wheeling City Council has approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Silicon Foundry involving its proposed data center project in Warwood. Under the agreement, the facility would remain below 90 megawatts and be subject to Wheeling’s zoning and taxation requirements. In return, the city would assist with permitting and pursue the creation of a tax break district connected to the project.
New information has also been released following Tuesday’s fatal crash on State Route 7 in Monroe County. The Ohio State Highway Patrol said a driver residing near Marietta crossed the center line and collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle. The other driver, identified as 54-year-old Duff Mahoney of Clarington, died from his injuries. According to the patrol, both drivers were wearing seat belts.
In Ohio County, a grand jury returned 25 indictments involving 26 people this week. Among those named were Jennifer Sherman of Wheeling, who faces embezzlement and credit card fraud charges; Donald Ewing of Bridgeport, who is accused of fraudulent schemes; and John Lynch II of Wheeling, a former web manager at WTRF, who faces three counts of embezzlement. Those charged are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Debate surrounding automated license plate readers is continuing on both sides of the Ohio River. Steubenville City Council voted 6-1 to keep its Flock cameras operating, although a petition effort could put the issue before voters. In Moundsville, residents have raised questions about the purchase of similar cameras without a City Council vote. Police maintain that the purchase was legal. Eight cameras have been installed across Marshall County.
In downtown Steubenville, crews are working to repair electrical infrastructure after a building being demolished as part of a brewery project collapsed into Market Street. The collapse damaged three street lights, and City Manager Michael Johnson said AEP would need to rewire the affected lights.
At the state level, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed legislation Tuesday establishing a new commission focused on defense and aerospace development. According to the newscast, the commission will work on attracting aerospace investment, addressing drone threats and supporting job creation in Ohio.
Several community events are also approaching. Big Willie 105.5 will broadcast live Saturday from Rafter M Arena during an evening of bull riding and family entertainment. Gates open at 5 p.m., with the show beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and younger.
And Shadyside is preparing for its inaugural Winter Festival on Dec. 19. Plans include food trucks, a pie contest, a dog contest and other holiday activities.
River News will continue following these stories and other developments across the Ohio Valley.
