# 2026-09-16 JCC Water Advisory Committee Meeting

The Jefferson County Water Advisory Committee meeting (titled September 16, 2026; meeting metadata lists September 17) reviewed draft responses about environmental impacts of sewer sites. The committee approved the previously discussed answers to Technical Question 3 for public notice, on a motion seconded by Will Smith. Members discussed revisions to draft answers on public and private sewer systems, spill reporting and response, and the roles of state agencies. The committee also identified follow-up work to obtain information on permitted septic systems and sewer connections from the health department and utilities. No contract award or purchase was approved.

A major discussion concerned a possible three-year groundwater and water-resource study, including how to assess supply, demand, and impacts from potential high-water-use development such as data centers. An estimated cost of $350,000 for Jefferson County, or about $700,000 to cover Jefferson and Berkeley counties, was discussed; these were preliminary estimates, not an approved expenditure. Members said funding would need to be pursued in 2026 for a potential fall 2027 start, considering grants, state funding, and county or legislative support. A suggestion that prospective developers contribute to study costs was raised but not acted on. The committee planned to circulate the draft materials for further review and target a county commission presentation for November 5.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Environment, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 17, 2026

### Sources
- [2026-09-16 JCC Water Advisory Committee Meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZNtEqa0Zec) - Jefferson County WV