AGP Executive Report

Coal Power Push: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal capacity, using Defense Production Act authority—drawing support from grid-reliability advocates and criticism as an uncompetitive subsidy. Energy Infrastructure & Grid: NextEra is pressing West Virginia communities on the MidAtlantic Resiliency Link, a $1.1B, 500-kilovolt transmission project aimed at easing grid congestion across multiple counties. Water & Public Health: A new House hearing spotlighted ongoing drinking-water failures in McDowell County, with residents describing unsafe tap water and makeshift storage. Outdoor Access: The U.S. Forest Service will close a major access road to Dolly Sods Wilderness for repairs starting June 22, while keeping other routes open. Local Government & Trails: Wheeling City Council will consider budget revisions and a state grant agreement to connect sections of the Wheeling Heritage Trail. Food Safety: Alfredo sauce recall expanded to the highest risk level over possible salmonella contamination. Automotive Safety: Honda and Acura recalls 880,000+ vehicles for rear suspension corrosion tied to road salt. Workforce & Education: Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College names interim president Elizabeth Manuel, focusing on enrollment growth and workforce development. Community Industry: IBEW Local 317 hosted a Tri-State Take Kids Fishing Day at Beech Fork State Park, pairing trades values with youth outdoor skills.

Coal & Power Funding: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal buildouts, using the Defense Production Act—an effort framed as grid reliability support but criticized as an uncompetitive subsidy. Transmission & Grid Buildout: NextEra defended the MidAtlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) at West Virginia PSC hearings, pitching the 107.5-mile, 500-kilovolt line as a reliability upgrade that would bring major tax and union construction jobs, while residents voiced opposition. Water Infrastructure: A House Appropriations discussion highlighted ongoing drinking-water failures in southern West Virginia, with residents describing unsafe tap water and reliance on springs or rain catchment. Energy Costs: AAA reports pump prices falling for a third straight week, offering some relief to transportation-dependent businesses and travelers. Food Safety & Regulation: An Alfredo sauce recall was upgraded to the highest risk level over possible salmonella contamination. Consumer Health Policy: A new report says synthetic dyes remain in nearly 1 in 5 U.S. packaged foods, with West Virginia among states that have moved to restrict them. Automotive Recall: Honda and Acura recalls 880,000 vehicles over rear suspension corrosion tied to road salt exposure. Retail Expansion: Kroger is expanding in Elkview, doubling store size to 82,000 square feet with a garden center and sushi destination.

Energy & Industry: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal generation, using the Defense Production Act—an effort critics call a subsidy for an uncompetitive industry while supporters frame it as grid reliability. Food & Health Regulation: A new report says nearly 1 in 5 U.S. packaged foods still contain synthetic dyes, with West Virginia among states that have moved to restrict them as the FDA’s voluntary phase-out faces slow industry follow-through. Retail & Construction: Kroger is doubling its Elkview store from about 33,000 to 82,000 square feet, adding a garden center and sushi destination—plus more local jobs. Energy Costs: AAA reports gas prices falling for a third straight week, easing pressure for summer travelers and transportation-dependent small businesses. Workforce & Policy: West Virginia’s Pell Grant and micro-credentialing legislation was signed at NRCTC, aiming to expand training pathways. Local Economy & Infrastructure: A West Virginia data-center update says the state received its first microgrid certification application, as the sector faces growing public pushback.

Energy & Jobs: Gov. Morrisey’s office is pushing coal life-extension claims, but a new report says key project details were blocked and the funding status is murky as the state weighs shifting energy priorities. Data Centers & Power: West Virginia’s Data Economy Office says it received its first application to certify a microgrid tied to data center development, even as residents and local officials keep pressing for more transparency. Construction & Retail: Kroger is building a bigger Elkview store, doubling to 82,000 square feet with a garden center and sushi destination—aimed at adding local jobs. Healthcare Workforce: A new WV law signed by Morrisey expands workforce training via Pell Grants and micro-credentials at a local campus, targeting faster pathways into in-demand roles. Public Safety & Flood Resilience: One year after the Ohio County floods, cleanup and debris removal efforts continue, while Mingo County moves ahead with an FEMA-funded flood mitigation study to reduce repeat damage. Food & Consumer Health: A federal phase-out of certain synthetic dyes faces hurdles, and West Virginia is among states that have already moved to restrict them. Coal Policy: The Trump administration announced $850M for coal plant modernization and new coal capacity, drawing both grid-reliability support and subsidy criticism. Local Business: Property transfers in Kanawha County show steady real estate movement, with multiple deals above $150,000 recorded May 31–June 6.

Coal & Power Push: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and two new coal plants, using Defense Production Act authority—critics call it an unnecessary subsidy while supporters say it boosts grid reliability. Energy Infrastructure & Data Centers: West Virginia’s Data Economy Office says the state received its first application for microgrid certification tied to data center development, as officials continue pushing the data center buildout amid public concerns. Workforce Development: Gov. Morrisey signed workforce bills creating a West Virginia micro-credential program to speed training into high-demand jobs, from trades to healthcare. Public Safety Funding: Congresswoman Carol Miller secured $4.1M for rural EMS and public safety projects, including $800,000 for Alderson. Flood Risk Planning: Mingo County is starting a FEMA-funded flood mitigation study with public meetings to identify problem areas and prioritize fixes. STEM Education: Bluefield State University won approval to launch a Master of Science in Engineering Technology starting fall 2026. Food & Health Regulation: A report says nearly 20% of packaged foods still contain synthetic dyes, with West Virginia among states that have moved to restrict them.

Coal & Power Policy: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal capacity, using Defense Production Act authority—an effort critics call an unnecessary subsidy for an uncompetitive industry. PFAS & Water Safety: A federal appeals court vacated a preliminary injunction against a West Virginia PFAS discharger, saying the plaintiff didn’t show the level of irreparable harm needed for emergency relief, while EPA moves to roll back parts of PFAS drinking-water rules. Data Centers & Local Impacts: In Mason County, a data center developer’s “Good Neighbors” buyout program is underway for homes near the Monarch Compute Campus; meanwhile, West Virginia’s MARL transmission fight continues with another PSC hearing drawing strong opposition. Energy Infrastructure Opposition: At Kingwood’s MARL hearing, residents and officials argued the line would raise bills and mainly serve data-center power needs. STEM Workforce: Bluefield State University won approval to launch a Master of Science in Engineering Technology, starting fall 2026. Public Safety & Industry: Preston County emergency teams say water levels are receding after seepage concerns at an earthen dam near Cascade. Business & Food: Fry Pie Factory issued a voluntary recall of pepperoni rolls due to misbranding and refrigeration process deviation.

Energy & Grid Infrastructure: West Virginia officials and residents are again clashing over major power transmission plans, with opponents speaking out at public hearings against the MidAtlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) and other proposed lines, arguing the projects’ impacts aren’t matched by clear benefits. Data Centers & Power Planning: The state’s Data Economy Office says it received its first microgrid certification application tied to data center development, while neighbors near a Mason County construction site complain about communication gaps and rushed decision-making. Agriculture & Robotics: WVU researchers unveiled a soft robotic gripper that can inspect fruit ripeness and harvest delicate produce like strawberries without bruising, aiming to cut spoilage and labor strain. Public Safety & Rural Industry: West Virginia agriculture officials rolled out new animal transport rules to prevent New World screwworm from entering the state, requiring entry permits and veterinary checks from higher-risk zones. Energy Costs: Gas prices fell for a third straight week nationally, easing pressure for drivers as crude prices stay below $100. Coal Policy Watch: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and new coal capacity, drawing fresh criticism from environmental groups. Water Infrastructure: Gov. Morrisey authorized temporary state backing to keep a flood-damaged fire department substation project moving while FEMA completes review.

Coal & Power Policy: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization, including upgrades to existing facilities and support for two new coal plants—a move framed as grid reliability and lower costs, but criticized as a subsidy for an uncompetitive, polluting industry. Energy Transition Signal: New data show solar overtook coal for the first time in U.S. electricity generation (May), underscoring how fast the power mix is shifting even as coal gets fresh federal backing. Water Infrastructure & Public Health: A West Virginia drinking-water quality report highlights ongoing failures in aging systems, with Rep. Riley Moore describing residents relying on springs and rainwater due to unsafe tap water. Industrial Safety: A worker died in an industrial accident at an Appalachian Forest Products facility in Buckhannon, with the cause under investigation. Workforce Development: American Water launched its 2026 Flow Forward summer program, including West Virginia students, to build the next generation of water-industry talent. Agriculture Biosecurity: WVDA issued new interstate movement requirements tied to New World Screwworm detections to protect livestock and animal industries. Local Energy Projects: Monongalia County residents packed a PSC hearing opposing a proposed transmission line tied to the MARL project. Food Industry Regulation: A federal phase-out of synthetic dyes faces mixed progress, while states including West Virginia have moved to restrict certain additives.

Coal & Power Policy: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization, including support for new coal units and expanded coal-export infrastructure, using the Defense Production Act—an effort critics call an unnecessary subsidy for an uncompetitive industry. Transmission & Land Use: West Virginia residents packed a PSC public hearing to oppose the MidAtlantic Resiliency Link, arguing the 107-mile, 500-kilovolt line would harm farms, raise property-tax concerns, and deliver a “bad deal” for the state. Energy Costs & Fuel: Gas prices in West Virginia continued to cool in late May, with GasBuddy reporting the lowest regular price in Hampshire County at $4.49 and statewide regular averaging about $4.44. Food & Consumer Safety: A federal update says nearly 20% of U.S. packaged foods still contain synthetic dyes, while West Virginia is among states with restrictions; meanwhile, an FDA recall update covers undeclared wheat in certain ice cream bars. Workforce & Training: Wheeling’s Sheet Metal Workers Local 33 is running “Heavy Metal Summer Experience,” a trade-focused camp aimed at getting recent grads into construction careers with paid pathways. Water Infrastructure: Kanawha County is moving ahead with an $8.3 million project to replace aging lines and extend service to about 84 families, with construction expected in spring 2027.

Coal & Power Investment: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization, including two new coal plants and upgrades to existing facilities, using the Defense Production Act to support “energy dominance,” while critics call it an unnecessary subsidy. Food & Consumer Safety: A federal voluntary push to phase out six synthetic dyes by end of 2026 is running into friction as major brands haven’t publicly committed, even as research links some dyes to behavioral concerns and states—including West Virginia—move ahead with restrictions. Workforce & Education: WVNCC named Dr. Andrew Langrehr as its ninth president, setting up a leadership transition in August as the school continues its focus on workforce development. Transportation & Auto Industry: Honda issued a large recall covering 880,514 vehicles (including 463,000+ Pilots) over rear suspension/subframe corrosion risk, affecting models sold in West Virginia. Local Energy Costs: GasBuddy reported diesel lows in Brooke County ($5.37) and Wood County ($5.17), plus E15 lows in Wood County ($3.93)—a snapshot of shifting fuel prices for West Virginia drivers. Digital Growth: CadenceSEO expanded into West Virginia, pitching AI- and local-focused SEO and digital marketing services for businesses.

Coal & Energy Policy: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization and two new coal plants, using Defense Production Act authority to boost grid reliability—while critics call it an unnecessary subsidy. Utility Rates: In West Virginia, the PSC approved an Appalachian Power 2.8% inflationary rate hike starting July 1, with a deal that delays a bigger base-rate case until 2027. Enforcement & Clean Water: Federal officials ended a criminal probe into Sen. Jim Justice’s coal operations tied to alleged Clean Water Act violations, shifting the matter toward civil handling. Local Water Infrastructure: Follansbee is set to receive $500,000 for Hooverson Heights Water Treatment Plant upgrades, closing a funding gap without adding resident costs. Construction & Schools: Marshall County BOE received an update on the future Riverside Elementary School, with bidding expected in 6–8 weeks and a 18–24 month build. Outdoor & Tourism: New River Expedition launched a 320-mile paddle across the New River watershed, with community meet-and-greets planned in the region. Retail & Jobs: Kroger broke ground on a new and expanded store in Elkview at the former K-Mart site. Workforce/Industry Equipment: GSA Equipment added Yellow Jacket mini skid loaders to its lineup, expanding compact diesel equipment options for contractors and landscapers across the region. Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reported West Virginia regular gas averaging $4.44 for the week ending May 30, with local lows like $4.29 in Morgan County and $4.39 in Hancock County.

Coal & Power Funding: The Trump administration announced $850 million for coal plant modernization, including Defense Production Act-backed upgrades and two new coal plants, framing it as grid reliability and lower energy costs while critics call it an unnecessary subsidy. Data Centers & Local Impact: West Virginia lawmakers are pushing back against resident concerns after visits to Data Center World, arguing the state can benefit from developer interest and that risks may be lower than feared. Transmission Line Hearings: The PSC will hold the final two public comment hearings for the Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) this week in Monongalia and Preston Counties, with opponents saying interveners won’t be allowed to testify and urging residents to submit full written comments. Mining Oversight: WVDEP will host an informational meeting on a mining permit renewal in Raleigh County on June 9 for Republic Energy’s Turkey Foot Surface Mine. Energy & Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reports the lowest E85 price in Upshur County at $3.94/gal for the week ending May 30, while premium gas in Jackson County hit $5.24/gal. Rural Entrepreneurship: A WVU study finds rural women entrepreneurs drive outsized economic growth and job creation in rural counties. Youth Fishing: The Bowden Fish Hatchery will host a free Youth Fishing Derby June 13 as part of West Virginia’s Free Fishing Days. Healthcare Access: A national report ranks Georgia among the worst states for childbirth, with West Virginia also cited as struggling in maternal care access. Forensic Services: Tennessee’s Knoxville Crime Laboratory earned a top forensic performance award, highlighting operational efficiency and reduced case backlogs.

Coal & Energy Policy: The Trump administration is directing about $500 million in Defense Production Act funding toward coal-fired power, including support for new coal plants in Alaska and West Virginia and modernization at 12 existing facilities, plus rail-linked export work. Water Infrastructure: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $3.3 million approved for four West Virginia water projects, leveraging nearly $26 million total investment to expand service and support housing and business growth. Environmental Cleanup: WVDEP highlighted the Richard Mine Treatment Plant’s role in restoring Deckers Creek after decades of acid mine drainage, with WVU research pointing to improving water quality and returning aquatic life. Biofuels: A year-round E15 ethanol bill passed the House, but its Senate path is uncertain; WV Sen. Shelley Moore Capito said she doubts it reaches 60 votes. Workforce & Education: The U.S. Department of Education named West Virginia a semifinalist for the Connecting Talent to Opportunity challenge, aiming to build talent marketplaces linking learners and employers. Local Industry/Tech: Pleasant Valley honored TMC Technologies for Artemis II contributions, underscoring West Virginia’s aerospace role. Antitrust: WV AG Ford filed a brief in the Meta antitrust case, arguing for stronger competition protections.

Water Infrastructure: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the IJDC approved about $3.3 million (leveraging nearly $26 million total) for four West Virginia water projects, including a Cowen PSD expansion to extend potable water and fire service in Webster County. Energy & Jobs: TerraSpark Energy says it will build a 1.6-gigawatt coal-fired power plant at Mount Storm in Grant County with carbon capture, supported by $18.5 million in federal funding via the Defense Production Act. Agriculture Watch: West Virginia agriculture officials are monitoring the first U.S. detection of New World screwworm in Texas, stressing the food supply is safe while preparing response steps for livestock and pets. Workforce Pathways: West Virginia’s Classroom 2 Career initiative reported 2,000+ students in 2025 apprenticeships, earning more than $5 million and logging 350,000+ hours with 600 business partners. Construction & Compliance: A West Virginia company, Applied Partners LLC, was fined $500,000 and placed on probation after asbestos contamination during a 2019 demolition. Local Economy Signals: GasBuddy price checks show E15, midgrade, and diesel deals varying by county, with Monongalia midgrade hitting $4.55 and Pleasants County regular at $4.58 for the week ending May 30. Education & Tech: WVU’s rover team won top marks at the 2026 University Rover Challenge, including a tie for first in autonomous navigation.

Coal & Power Investment: West Virginia leaders are backing President Trump’s Defense Production Act push that would repurpose about $700M for coal-fired power upgrades and new builds, with Gov. Morrisey pointing to Mount Storm in Grant County and the Mitchell Plant in Marshall County as key targets. Local Energy Projects: TerraSpark Energy was selected for up to $18.5M in initial DOE funding for a next-generation coal-fired power plant at Mount Storm, aiming for 1.6 gigawatts and up to 500 jobs. Grid & Transmission: The Public Service Commission held a public comment hearing on NextEra’s proposed transmission line, but attendees were reportedly blocked from speaking. Fuel Prices Watch: GasBuddy data shows scattered low points across the state—E15 as low as $3.31 in Lewis County and regular gas down to $4.13 in Monongalia County—while diesel remains higher, with lows around $5.17–$5.58 in several counties. Workforce & Industry Skills: WVU’s rover team won top marks at the 2026 University Rover Challenge, highlighting engineering talent tied to real-world systems. Community & Business: A new Goodwill store opened in Charleston, expanding a major second-hand retail footprint. Weather & Safety: Strong winds at the Morgantown NCAA baseball super regional sent five people to the hospital.

Coal & Power Investment: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia will benefit from President Trump’s announced ~$700M energy push using the Defense Production Act, with grid reliability and coal plant upgrades in focus; the state’s projects highlighted include the Mitchell Plant in Marshall County and work tied to Moundsville, plus DOE-backed modernization and recommissioning funding. Energy Infrastructure & Jobs: The plan also points to additional federal support for coal-fired generation modernization and related upgrades, aiming to extend plant operations and strengthen the electric grid. Fuel Prices Watch: GasBuddy data for the week ending May 30 shows regular gas lows like $4.42 in Wayne County, $4.39 in Grant County, and $4.13 in Monongalia County, while diesel lows include $5.29 in Hancock County; E15 and E85 prices also vary sharply by county. Local Retail & Community: A new Goodwill store opened in Charleston at the former Drug Emporium site, expanding a 27,000-square-foot thrift operation for the community. Agriculture Education: Bridgeport student Miyah Swiger brought back lessons from an FFA international trip to Spain, focused on global agriculture connections. Business & Tech Angle: A Microsoft report ranks West Virginia near the bottom for AI tool use, noting lower adoption in counties with more manufacturing, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and construction.