Baltimore City Council to discuss possible pause on data center development

The Baltimore City Council is scheduled to hold a hearing this morning to discuss a proposed one-year moratorium on data center development within the city. The aim of this temporary pause is to allow city officials to thoroughly study the potential environmental, financial, and electrical grid impacts associated with data centers. Concerns have been raised regarding already high BGE bills, potential health effects, and environmental consequences for local neighborhoods. This hearing comes just one day after the Board of Public Works approved a $9 million state grant for a new Johns Hopkins data center in East Baltimore. Johns Hopkins plans a 25,000 square foot facility to support life sciences and AI programs. However, if the proposed city-wide moratorium is approved, it could significantly delay the Hopkins project or compel them to seek an alternative location. Baltimore City Council President Z Cohen emphasized the importance of taking a "time out" to consider the best and highest use of land, optimal placement, and whether the technology is appropriate for the city. Public comment is encouraged at the meeting.