West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 207 - Coalfield Community Development
Here’s a clear breakdown of Agency 207 – Coalfield Community Development under the West Virginia Code of State Rules (Title 207, Legislative Rule – WV Division of Energy):
🏛️ Overview of Agency 207
Title 207 – Division of Energy rules govern the Office of Coalfield Community Development (CCD), a state entity within the Department of Economic Development (formerly Development Office). Its purpose is to promote sustainable community development in coal-impacted counties. (regulations.justia.com)
Core Subject Areas
1. Community Development Assessment & Real Property Valuation
Detailed in Series 207‑01, these rules establish procedures for assessing and valuing property within coalfield communities to guide meaningful development planning. (regulations.justia.com)
2. Notification & Comment on Mining Impacts
Requires mine operators, within 30 days of filing a community impact statement, to:
Notify local governments, development authorities, businesses, and residents via certified mail and Class I legal ads.
Include maps, operation timelines, land-use intentions, and instructions on how to submit public comments (also within 30 days). (law.cornell.edu)
3. Coordination with Local Authorities
CCD must share operator filings and public comments with county development authorities.
After the comment period, CCD integrates community feedback into the county’s land-use master plan. (law.cornell.edu)
4. Post-Mining Community Asset Planning
CCD evaluates and recommends future uses for mining-impacted lands, focusing on:
Water/wastewater infrastructure
Land for housing, business, and recreation
Educational and community facilities
These must align with local master land-use plans and consider long-term community viability. (law.cornell.edu)
5. Legislative Authority & Office Structure
Authority granted under WV Code § 5B‑2A (House Bill 4110, 2009 session), which formally created the Office of CCD within the Department of Economic Development. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
The CCD director is gubernatorial-appointed, with a deadline for the first appointment by July 1, 2026. Quarterly reports to legislative finance and energy committees are required. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
🔍 Why It Matters
Ensures robust community involvement, transparency, and fair notice regarding mining activities.
Promotes long-term economic revitalization, helping communities transition beyond extractive industries.
Aligns coalfield community needs with local land use planning, ensuring recovery efforts are meaningful and sustainable.
📄 Interested in More?
Series 207‑01 contains the full text of regulations governing assessments, notification requirements, procedures, and implementation. Explore via the WV Division of Energy section of the West Virginia CSR or the Justia site. (law.cornell.edu, regulations.justia.com)
The enabling statute (§ 5B‑2A) provides legislative context and authority. (code.wvlegislature.gov)
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