Prince George’s County Planning Board defies staff recommendation on data center amendment
The Prince George's County Planning Board opted to take no position on a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance that could permit data centers in agricultural and residential zones. This decision came despite staff recommendations against the amendment and significant resident opposition, and after the County Council had already enacted a two-year moratorium on data center development. The amendment, proposed by Council member Wanika Fisher, aims to establish regulations for data centers in the county's future.
The Prince George’s County Planning Board recently chose to take no position on a proposed amendment to the county’s zoning ordinance that could allow data centers in agricultural and residential areas. This decision defied an unfavorable recommendation from planning department staff and numerous pleas from residents.
The board's discussion followed the Prince George’s County Council's enactment of a moratorium on data center development for up to two years, or until specific regulatory legislation is approved. Council member Wanika Fisher, who proposed the amendment, stated her belief in discussing the role of data centers for the county's future and that her bill would introduce necessary regulations and community standards to mitigate the moratorium's effect.
Planning department staff urged the board to oppose the amendment, arguing it was a piecemeal approach that conflicted with the existing moratorium and lacked comprehensive definitions, such as for 'Brownfield' sites. Residents echoed these concerns, testifying about the need for comprehensive legislation addressing electricity, water usage, air pollution, and environmental justice. While only one person from IBEW Local 26 spoke in favor, community organizers stressed that growth must serve the public good, respect agricultural preservation, and align with community consent.
The proposed amendment suggests exempting data centers over 200 acres from detailed site plan requirements, setting minimum project sizes, and increasing buffer distances from residential areas. It also requires community benefit agreements without specifying terms. Opponents expressed disappointment, asserting it's inappropriate to expand data center zones without adequate protective legislation, especially with the moratorium in place. The Planning Board's unanimous vote was to accept the staff's analysis but abstain from a position, allowing a council member to formally introduce the amendment as a bill.