RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – Patrick Morrisey’s recent Beckley visit with Southern West Virginia reporters focused on his first 100 days as Mountain State’s governor.
He says this session’s Microgrids Bill would utilize our vast energy resources and attract data centers.
“West Virginia’s going to have the preeminent data center regulatory system,” said Morrisey. “This will help data centers move in, speed to build.”
Flood recovery was a significant part of the governor’s first 100 days in office. He says to date, some of the affected areas have received more than $27 million, and his administration worked hard to get FEMA approvals.
“At the beginning, we worked closely with first responders and local officials on more than 100 swiftwater rescues,” the governor said. “That’s critical. According to our national guard, they’ve cleared over 17,000 tons of debris.”
When you get federal approval for disaster relief, he says it’s not just the individual in public assistance — you might be able to mitigate and get future grant money.
“To erect barriers and walls and things that might keep the water out a little bit more,” said Morrisey. “So I’m encouraging the local counties and communities to look into that because I was able to help get the approval.”
The governor will work with people to limit Mother Nature’s impact.
“We care passionately about the people in McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Wyoming, and all across the southern regions and the areas that were hard hit,” Morrisey said. “I want to make sure we continue to focus on that.”
With the governor also about making West Virginia healthy, he is glad many across the state are doing their version of the Mountaineer Mile.
“We were just in Little Beaver State Park kicking that off and will be doing that every single day,” said Morrisey. “Just take the time, half hour/hour, walk at least a mile, if not a bit more, and you’ll find it does amazing things for your health.”
The southern part of the state has the potential for economic growth.
“I think this Microgrid Bill is going to be wildly beneficial, that’s a positive. The Universal Licensing Bill has been very successful in the past, attracting businesses to come in,” the governor said. “The One-Stop Shop Permitting Bill is going to make it a lot easier for businesses to come into the state.”
Morrisey says he is looking out for all parts of this scenic mecca.
“Southern West Virginia has a great story to tell and I want to make sure I’m helping tell that story,” the governor said.
