AGP Executive Report

Defense & Aviation Jobs: Pratt & Whitney Canada won a nine-year, $1 billion contract to overhaul PT6A-68 engines for the U.S. Joint Primary Aircraft Training System, with much of the work tied to the North Central West Virginia Airport in Bridgeport. Manufacturing Expansion: Germany-based Helsing plans a $50 million manufacturing operation in Martinsburg to build its HX-2 AI-enabled strike drone, aiming to create at least 60 jobs. Tourism Workforce: Gov. Morrisey says West Virginia’s Tourism Works program has surpassed 25,000 microcredentials and 1,000 college credit hours since March 2025, with more than 4,000 residents enrolled. Food Safety: Walmart recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits in 29 states, including West Virginia, due to possible listeria contamination. Local Education: Monongalia County Schools reported its highest assessment testing results in a decade, with gains across reading, math, and ELA. Community & Public Safety Tech: West Virginia lawmakers are weighing concerns over Flock automatic license plate readers, as criticism grows nationwide. Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker data shows Dunbar tied for 7th in July scam reports among West Virginia cities.

Food Safety Recall: Walmart is pulling 3,240 packs of Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits (14 oz, UPC 194346474004, use-by Aug. 22, 2026) after routine testing showed a presumptive positive for Listeria monocytogenes; no confirmed illnesses reported, and the kits were sold in 29 states including West Virginia. Tourism Workforce: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia’s Tourism Works program has surpassed 25,000 microcredentials and 1,000 college credit hours since launching in March 2025, with more than 4,000 residents enrolled in the free training. Data Center Push Meets Local Pushback: Tucker County residents are organizing against a proposed large data center campus and power plant near Thomas and Davis, citing shifting project details and concerns about air and water impacts. Public Safety & Weather: A Sunday storm setup calls for scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms, with the highest flash-flood risk where soils are already saturated. Energy Costs Watch: GasBuddy reports the lowest E85 price in Hardy County at $3.39/gal (week ending Aug. 8), while diesel pricing in Wetzel County hit $4.89/gal. Local Business/Community: Hancock County commissioners hired outside counsel for opioid-funding negotiations tied to Family Care Ministries.

Workforce & Tourism: Gov. Patrick Morrisey says West Virginia’s Tourism Works has topped 25,000 microcredentials and 1,000 college credit hours since launching in March 2025, with more than 4,000 residents enrolled—aimed at filling roughly 21,000 tourism job openings each year. Energy & Manufacturing: Form Energy secured $750 million in new equity to expand its West Virginia iron-air battery plant in Weirton, targeting longer-duration power storage for growing data-center demand. Food Safety: Walmart recalled more than 3,000 Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits in 29 states, including West Virginia, after routine testing showed a presumptive listeria contamination; no confirmed illnesses reported. Public Safety Tech: West Virginia lawmakers are weighing concerns over Flock license-plate cameras, including privacy, security, and how local police use the data. Local Business/Community: Sioux Honey Co-op and Giant Eagle donated 4,860 pounds of honey to Pittsburgh’s 412 Food Rescue to support families facing food insecurity. Data Centers: Morrisey defended the state’s “Responsible Data Center Development Plan,” saying it builds on existing law while facing skepticism from opponents.

Data Centers & Power Costs: Gov. Patrick Morrisey defended West Virginia’s “Responsible Data Center Development Plan,” saying it builds on HB 2014 and points to enforcement already in law, while declining to say whether it adds protections for ratepayers and water beyond current requirements. Industrial Permitting: West Virginia DEP approved an air quality permit for Clean-Seas West Virginia’s plastics-to-products facility near Belle, despite nearby residents’ fears about public health impacts and the area’s existing pollution burden. Food Safety: Walmart shoppers in West Virginia and 28 other states were hit by a recall of Kettle Cuisine’s Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits after routine testing found a presumptive Listeria result; no confirmed illnesses reported. Public Health Outbreaks: FDA and CDC began onsite inspection and sampling at Taylor Farms de Mexico in Guanajuato as the cyclosporiasis outbreak investigation continues, with cases reported across 17 states including West Virginia. Local Governance & Health Funding: Hancock County commissioners hired outside counsel to help negotiate how opioid settlement funds will be used for a Family Care Ministries construction project. Infrastructure & Traffic: ODOT outlined Jefferson County construction impacts, including SR 7 slide repairs and resurfacing work affecting lanes and ramps. Energy Storage Industry: Form Energy raised $750 million to expand iron-air battery manufacturing in Weirton to meet growing energy storage demand. Water & Utilities: Morgantown Utility Board was recognized for best-tasting water in West Virginia by the West Virginia Rural Water Association.

Food Safety: Walmart is recalling Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits (14 oz, UPC 194346474004, best-by Aug. 22, 2026) after routine testing showed a presumptive Listeria monocytogenes result; no confirmed illnesses reported, and the kits were sold in select stores across 29 states including West Virginia. Public Health & Agriculture: FDA and CDC have begun onsite inspection and sampling at Taylor Farms de Mexico in Guanajuato as the cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce reaches 9,481 cases across 17 states, with West Virginia among the affected. Energy Storage Manufacturing: Form Energy raised $750 million to expand iron-air battery production and scale manufacturing in Weirton, aiming to meet growing demand tied to data centers. Workplace Health: New reporting highlights black lung rates in Appalachia at the highest levels in decades, renewing pressure on silica dust enforcement for coal miners. Tech & Local Control: Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s new data center plan pitches community input and revenue sharing, as opposition grows statewide. Local Business & Community: Sioux Honey Co-op and Giant Eagle donated 4,860 pounds of honey to Pittsburgh-area food rescue, underscoring ongoing hunger-relief partnerships. Infrastructure & Education: Morgantown-area schools prepare for the 2026-27 start, with construction and classroom upgrades in the pipeline.

Data Centers: Gov. Patrick Morrisey and legislative leaders unveiled a 20-year “Responsible Data Center Development Plan,” aiming to guide hyperscaler growth with seven principles and use data center tax revenue to fund local infrastructure and offset statewide income taxes. Power & Transmission: Residents and groups are organizing against the proposed Valley North 765-kilovolt transmission line, including a fairground campaign to formally oppose the project and concerns about impacts on farms, schools, and cemeteries. Water Infrastructure: Weirton’s water line replacement project faces a funding delay after a Charleston funding recommendation was tabled, while Lubeck PSD ratepayers pressed for details on a proposed water and sewer rate hike tied to aging infrastructure. Energy Efficiency: West Virginia’s HOMES home energy rebate pilot has opened, moving the state closer to federally funded whole-home upgrades, though another appliance rebate program remains in development. Coal & Safety: A Barbour County mine was evacuated after carbon monoxide was detected, with officials linking the issue to a fire underground; meanwhile, UMWA is pushing for stricter enforcement of federal silica dust protections after new findings show black lung rates at the worst levels in decades. Public Health: The FDA says the cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce now involves 17 states, adding Maine and Massachusetts, and health officials continue tracing the source. Food Recalls: Walmart updated a recall of a Marketside tomato bisque soup kit due to potential Listeria contamination. Wildlife Health: USDA-APHIS begins an oral rabies vaccine bait drop across northern and central West Virginia through early September. Business & Logistics: Petroleum Carriers LLC selected Gravitate TMS to run its fuel transport operations across the mid-Atlantic, reflecting growing needs for petroleum-specific dispatch and integrations. Local Economy: A new Leadership Randolph class of 18 was announced for 2027.

Road Construction: West Virginia Division of Highways awarded a nearly $10M contract for a 4.5-mile Route 50 paving project in Harrison County, from Clarksburg’s Route 19 to the I-79 junction near Bridgeport, including milling, paving, guardrails, and drainage work. Workplace Safety: A U.S. Chemical Safety Board report says a Kanawha County chemical plant where two workers died in April didn’t require respirators during decommissioning and lacked proper gas monitoring. Energy & Industry: WV DEP approved an air quality permit for Clean-Seas West Virginia’s plastic repurposing (pyrolysis) plant in eastern Kanawha County, despite Belle-area opposition over emissions, tourism impacts, and proximity to schools. Skilled Trades & Aviation Training: Pierpont Community and Technical College got final approval for a $23M aviation training expansion at the North Central West Virginia Airport in Bridgeport, aimed at meeting industry hiring needs. Local Business & Community: The 101st State Fair of West Virginia continues with agriculture-focused stops like the Greenbrier East High School FFA Ham Stand, supporting student projects. Public Safety & Fraud: BBB Scam Tracker data shows Ravenswood tied for 21st among WV cities in July with one reported scam. Health & Food: A multistate jalapeño salmonella recall continues to expand, with officials warning consumers to check affected products.

Data Centers & Power Costs: Gov. Patrick Morrisey unveiled “responsible data center principles,” but critics say the 10-page plan doesn’t add real ratepayer or environmental protections beyond a 2025 fast-track law. Energy Permitting Fight: A dispute over EPA’s Clean Water Act veto power could let the agency block energy and infrastructure projects even after permits are issued, with a West Virginia example tied to a coal mine disposal fight. Grid & Natural Gas Demand: PJM’s reformed interconnection process is moving first-ready projects forward, and natural gas is leading the queue—driven in part by data center demand. Pipeline & Legal Pressure: West Virginia AG J.B. McCuskey joined a multi-state amicus brief to keep the Line 5 pipeline open, arguing federal authority should prevent one state from shutting energy supply. Public Safety Tech: Bridgewater residents debated Flock license plate reader cameras, with many raising privacy concerns while supporters say they help solve crimes. Fire & Cleanup: WVDEP and the WV Department of Agriculture updated cleanup at the Peoples Cartage warehouse fire site, reporting low contaminant levels so far and ongoing monitoring. Food Industry Shock: A multistate jalapeño recall tied to Salmonella has expanded to hundreds sickened, hitting major retailers including Walmart, Target, Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods. Health & Workforce: Monongalia County began distributing oral rabies vaccine baits around Morgantown, and Parkersburg firefighters launched esophageal cancer pre-screenings. Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reported the lowest regular gas in Mineral County at $3.52 (week ending Aug. 1), with other county spot checks showing continued volatility.

Firearms finance cleared: West Virginia AG J.B. McCuskey said First Internet Bank of Indiana, Ramp.com and Bill.com told his office they won’t discriminate against firearms businesses, closing a potential FIND Act dispute tied to Kent Cartridge. Pipeline fight: McCuskey is leading an 18-state coalition urging a federal appeals court to keep Enbridge’s Line 5 open, arguing Michigan can’t shut the pipeline under federal safety authority. Data center rules: WV released a 20-year framework for “responsible” data center development, aiming to protect ratepayers, water and communities before hyperscale projects surge. Local data center backlash: In Tucker County, residents and opponents are pushing back on a proposed massive data center campus and power plan, citing shifting details and environmental worries. Food safety: Taylor Farms’ jalapeño recall expanded to 345 illnesses and 36 hospitalizations, pulling products sold at major retailers including Walmart, Target and Trader Joe’s. Privacy cameras: Bridgewater residents packed a council meeting to question Flock license-plate cameras, while a supporter argued they’re not facial recognition. Public health: Monongalia County began distributing oral rabies vaccine baits around Morgantown, with USDA drops planned for rural areas. Flood recovery funding: Lawmakers heard the State Resiliency Office wants more flexibility for the Flood Resiliency Fund after a $5M appropriation. Scam reports: South Charleston and other WV cities logged notable BBB Scam Tracker activity in July, with losses tied to online purchase scams and debt-collection schemes.

Data Center Policy: Gov. Patrick Morrisey and legislative leaders unveiled a 20-year “West Virginia Responsible Data Center Development Plan,” built around HB 2014 and the Power Generation and Consumption Act, aiming to attract hyperscale projects while protecting residents and the state’s natural beauty through seven core principles. Industrial Safety: A federal chemical safety agency issued a final report on the Aug. 2025 Clairton Coke Works blast that killed two workers, recommending written procedures for flushing gas valves with pressurized water to reduce hazards. Energy & Mining Oversight: The WV Department of Environmental Protection sued Bluestone Coal for nearly $3 million in unpaid penalties, alleging repeated mining and water pollution violations. Food Industry Risk: Taylor Farms expanded a jalapeño recall tied to a multi-state salmonella outbreak, with products sold at major retailers and additional traceback pointing to imported jalapeños. Gaming Research: WVU researchers received nearly $300,000 from Arnold Ventures to study loss-chasing in online sports betting and help operators and families reduce risky behavior. Water/Utility Regulation: A federal lawsuit over alleged Clean Water Act violations at the Amsted Graphite plant in Anmoore is turning into a constitutional fight over who can enforce federal environmental laws. Public Assistance: WV DHS got USDA approval to extend SNAP food-loss reporting for storm-impacted counties through Aug. 20. Automation & Jobs: Frontieras North America selected Yokogawa as main automation contractor for an $850M Mason County facility expected to create 2,000 construction jobs and 200 permanent roles.

Data Centers & Power Planning: Gov. Patrick Morrisey and legislative leaders unveiled a 20-year West Virginia Responsible Data Center Development Plan under HB 2014, creating state oversight and certification rules for hyperscale projects after many counties lacked tools to approve or reject them. Energy & Jobs: Frontieras North America selected Yokogawa as main automation contractor for an $850M Mason County solid carbon fractionation facility tied to coal processing, with about 2,000 construction jobs and 200 permanent roles expected. Mining & Enforcement: The WV DEP sued Bluestone Coal for nearly $3M in unpaid penalties, alleging repeated state mining and water pollution violations. Environment: Environmental groups sued Amsted Graphite in Anmoore over more than 1,100 Clean Water Act permit violations, arguing the plant’s discharges exceeded limits hundreds of times. Food Safety: Taylor Fresh Foods recalled prepared jalapeño products in 26 states due to possible salmonella contamination linked to jalapeños from Coast Citrus Distributors. Local Aviation: Morgantown hired Brian Belcher as the new director of Morgantown Municipal Airport. Public Assistance: WV DHS extended SNAP food-loss reporting for storm-impacted counties through Aug. 20. Legal/Local Governance: Tucker County commissioners face misdemeanor charges tied to the Sheriff’s Incentive Program. Business & Finance: IRS filed new federal tax lien notices totaling $8.83M+ against the Greenbrier Hotel Corp. and Greenbrier Clinic as a federal judge presses for updates in a high-stakes Greenbrier business dispute.

Food Safety: Taylor Fresh Foods expanded its jalapeño-linked Salmonella recall, pulling ready-to-eat dips, salsa, guacamole, pico de gallo and more from major retailers in 26 states, including West Virginia, with “Best If Used By” dates through Aug. 16. Public Health & Industry: The outbreak is tied to jalapeños grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, supplied via Coast Citrus Distributors, and federal investigators say the recall now reaches home refrigerators, not just restaurant kitchens. Energy Innovation: WVU innovation leader Erienne Olesh is guiding the NSF’s Resilient Energy Technology and Infrastructure (RETI) consortium, aiming to strengthen America’s energy future with up to $321 million in investment across Appalachia. Workforce & Manufacturing: WVU is also backing a coalition to power next-generation manufacturing, positioning the state’s universities and partners for new industrial growth. Infrastructure & Utilities: Appalachian Power crews are restoring service after severe storms; outages peaked above 28,000 customers, with more than 5,000 in West Virginia at last update. State Operations: West Virginia’s Department of Agriculture announced oral rabies vaccine bait distribution in 16 counties to curb a rise in wildlife rabies cases. Local Construction: Charleston’s largest skatepark is set to close Aug. 12 for Fort Hill Bridge rehabilitation, a project carrying nearly 100,000 vehicles daily.

State Fair Spotlight: The 101st State Fair of West Virginia opens Thursday in Lewisburg for a 10-day run, with organizers projecting about $48 million in economic activity and a lineup that blends agriculture, livestock, and big-name concerts. Appalachian Heritage: A “Grandma Hobbies” West Virginia Building display highlights crafts and agriculture-related competitions, letting visitors see traditions passed down through generations. Food Safety & Retail Impact: Taylor Fresh Foods recalled jalapeño-containing dips, salsas, guacamole and other prepared items tied to a salmonella outbreak linked to Mexican-grown peppers, with products distributed across 26 states including West Virginia and sold at major retailers. Public Health Response: The West Virginia Department of Agriculture announced oral rabies vaccine bait distribution in parts of 16 counties, as rabies cases rise. Infrastructure Watch: Route 68’s bridge closure on the Wood County line continues with no firm reopening date; crews plan concrete pours mid-August. Education Policy: Lawmakers heard the governor’s “principles” for education reform, while House Democrats push for a special session and new education bills. Workforce & Growth: WVU named Kelsey Staggers as director of corporate relations and strategic engagement, aiming to deepen business partnerships. Transportation Oversight: A legislative update reviewed DOT bridge-rating progress and planning changes, including DMV modernization. Energy & Weather: Fuel prices eased in parts of West Virginia, while forecasters warned of a potentially dry, windy week with severe storm risk.

Food Safety & Retail: A Salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños has triggered recalls and public health alerts, with at least 18 ready-to-eat meat and poultry products flagged after jalapeños were recalled; major retailers including Walmart, Kroger, Whole Foods, and others are affected, and officials say more downstream products may be added. Public Safety Tech: West Virginia lawmakers kicked off August interim session with the Flock camera debate, hearing from the company and the Institute for Justice as cities expand license-plate reader use and privacy guardrails are questioned. Energy & Mining: West Virginia Sen. Chris Rose praised a new federal critical-minerals push as a “gold rush” for domestic mining and training, framing it as key to competing with China. Infrastructure & Power: Berkeley County leaders and regional delegates are opposing the Valley North transmission line, arguing it would sacrifice farmland and property rights while mainly serving power from West Virginia’s Amos coal plant. Workforce & Economic Development: Google says it’s ramping investment in Putnam County tied to a planned data center, including funding for schools, seniors, and emergency services. Business Climate: A study ranks Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan among the best states for new business survival—useful context for West Virginia’s own growth and retention efforts. Fuel Prices: GasBuddy reports show select low prices across West Virginia counties for E15, diesel, and midgrade—helpful for drivers watching week-to-week swings. Agriculture & Travel: West Virginia’s Greenbrier Valley is leaning into “coolcations” as heat drives travelers toward cooler mountain and cave destinations.

Workforce & Immigration: West Virginia’s 2nd District Rep. Riley Moore renewed his push to end the H-1B visa program, calling it a “scam” that hurts American workers as DHS moves to tighten H-1B job-loss protections. Food Safety: USDA FSIS issued a public health alert for meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated jalapeños that may be contaminated with Salmonella, with distribution including West Virginia. Energy Costs: GasBuddy reports show West Virginia fuel prices easing from spring highs, with the lowest midgrade deal in Marshall County at $3.86/gal (week ending Aug. 1) and statewide midgrade averaging $4.31/gal. Power & Data Centers: Communities continue to worry about rising electricity bills as more data centers are planned, with West Virginia-area attention growing alongside national concerns. Public Safety: West Virginia’s fire commission failed for 50 years to produce a required fire-death prevention plan; officials say the first comprehensive plan is being drafted for fall 2026. Aviation: Yeager Airport hired Dean Selby as director of general aviation, tasked with overseeing the Capital Jet Center and FBO. Local Industry & Jobs: WVU says a record number of students are getting behind-the-scenes experience at Nemacolin luxury resort, expanding the university’s hospitality pipeline.

Food Safety & Retail Impact: A cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce has hit thousands nationwide, with Taco Bell reporting 21% lower visits after removing Taylor Farms lettuce; officials say the source may be more complex as cases keep rising. Energy & Industry: West Virginia Sen. Chris Rose praised a Trump push for critical mineral projects, calling it a “new gold rush” and a boost for domestic mining and engineering jobs. Water Infrastructure & Accountability: Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s Southern West Virginia water listening tour in McDowell County faced sharp pushback over water quality, including residents showing discolored tap water and questioning promises. Aviation & Economic Development: Yeager Airport hired Dean Selby as director of general aviation, tasked with overseeing the Capital Jet Center and FBO. Public Health & Courts: SCOTUS set an Oct. 7 hearing in a Guam environmental case involving Air Force open burning/detonation, with West Virginia among states filing support. Fuel Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports West Virginia averages edging up week-over-week, with local lowest-price snapshots across counties. National Policy & Agriculture: A Supreme Court pesticide ruling limits state lawsuits when EPA hasn’t required warnings, raising stakes for rural residents and farmers.