Washington County commission places 12-month halt on data centers
Washington County Commissioners have imposed a 12-month moratorium on data center construction to assess their impact on water resources, infrastructure, noise, and electrical power. This decision also considers potential conflicts with existing zoning ordinances.
The Washington County Board of Commissioners in Maryland has voted to enact a 12-month moratorium on data center development, halting all construction progress for the upcoming year. The decision was driven by concerns over the potential impact of data centers on local water resources, existing infrastructure, noise pollution, and the availability of electrical power. Commissioners also expressed specific worries about conflicts that data center projects might create with current zoning ordinances.
Former Hagerstown City Councilman and State Delegate Matt Schuler commented on the decision, acknowledging the initial economic benefits such as tax revenue and union jobs during construction. However, he emphasized that the significant consequences and true impacts of data centers often become apparent only after their completion. Commissioner Neil Per was the sole vote against the pause.