Charles County Planning Commission Recommends Denial Of Data Center Zoning Amendment

The Charles County Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of a zoning text amendment that would establish regulations for data centers in the county. Key concerns included lack of clarity on power generation, infrastructure costs, and potable water usage. The commission cited a need for stronger alignment with the Maryland Next Generation Energy Act and suggested limiting any future data center proposals to heavy industrial zoning. Broader concerns were raised about long-term growth, energy demand, and potential impacts on residents. The recommendation now moves to the county's Board of Commissioners for final consideration.