Wicomico County council weighs data center moratorium
Wicomico County Council discussed a proposed data center moratorium, prompted by resident concerns about impacts on housing, electricity, noise, water, and the environment. Council members acknowledged the high energy consumption of AI, with some supporting a moratorium but noting the need for state support and the likelihood of legal challenges for a permanent ban. Officials suggest a moratorium would provide time to develop thoughtful regulations.
The Wicomico County Council in Maryland recently deliberated on a proposed moratorium on data center development, following significant public input from residents expressing concerns. Residents like Nigel Clark, Matt Blaze, and Maureen Leato Brewster voiced opposition, citing potential negative impacts on housing costs, electricity demand, noise, light pollution, water usage, and the local environment. Many called for an outright ban on large-scale data centers, arguing the county lacks the necessary capacity.
Council member Josh Hastings highlighted the substantial energy consumption required for generating AI content, likening a five-second AI video to an hour of microwave use. District 5 Council member Joe Holloway supported a moratorium but acknowledged the necessity of state legislative backing, anticipating potential state overrides on local decisions on the Eastern Shore.
Tracey Taylor, Director of Planning, Zoning and Community Development, advised caution, stating that a complete ban on data centers would likely lead to legal challenges. She referenced warnings from the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) and suggested that a moratorium would provide time for the county to thoughtfully consider and implement appropriate regulations without immediately facing lawsuits.