Calvert County Commissioner Candidate Jason Scaggs Campaigns Against Data Centers
Calvert County commissioner candidate Jason Scaggs is campaigning on a platform that includes strong opposition to data centers and advocating for planning and zoning reform. He played a role in the Board of County Commissioners' decision to ban fast-tracking data center approvals, specifically referencing an Amazon AWS project. Scaggs' platform emphasizes giving residents a stronger voice in local government and fiscal accountability.
Jason Scaggs, a candidate for Calvert County commissioner at-large, has centered his campaign on conservative principles, government accountability, and giving residents a stronger voice, particularly concerning data center development. Scaggs claims the majority of Calvert residents oppose data centers and that the current commissioners are not listening.
A key aspect of Scaggs' platform is his outspoken opposition to proposed data center developments in Calvert County, including a specific Amazon AWS project. He criticized the county for potentially fast-tracking the Amazon AWS project on 200 acres, contrasting it with the five years it took him to get a permit for a small local facility. His advocacy led to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) voting to ban fast-tracking data center approvals, which was seen as a victory for slowing down the process and allowing more public input.
Scaggs has also proposed that if the Amazon project is approved, its projected $212 million in annual revenue must be applied to tax relief, especially for seniors. He further criticizes current county leadership over spending, development decisions, and planning and zoning issues, advocating for reforms to the permitting process and greater transparency in rezoning decisions.