Data center debate heats up in Prince George's County
Prince George's County is experiencing renewed debate over data center development, despite a recently approved moratorium. A new proposal would permit data centers in rural, agricultural, and residential areas, prompting concerns from opponents about environmental and financial impacts. Both advocates and opponents are expected to voice their opinions at an upcoming planning commission meeting.
The debate over data center development is intensifying in Prince George's County, Maryland, where the planning board is set to address the issue at a meeting in Riverdale. This discussion follows a recently approved moratorium on data centers by Prince George's County just weeks prior.
The current proposal, which is causing "whiplash" for both advocates and opponents, seeks to allow qualified data centers in rural, agricultural, and residential areas. Opponents, citing environmental and financial concerns for residents, are urging the county to conduct a comprehensive impact study before proceeding with construction. They believe there's a continuous effort to undermine previous actions.
Conversely, advocates support the development, suggesting it could bring economic benefits, lower property taxes, and fund schools and public safety. A mysterious text message promoting data centers as an investment for wealth building in the county was sent to 100,000 residents and traced by Randy Hildreth to the Interfaith Action Movement and political consultant Reverend Derek Green. Green argues that Prince George's County, particularly its Black and brown communities, deserves to lead national discussions on such developments. Both sides are expected to attend the planning commission meeting, which is scheduled for 10:00 a.m.