Calvert County Strikes Down Data Center Moratorium In 2-3 Vote

Calvert County's Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) voted 2-3 against enacting a moratorium on data center development during their April 7 meeting. The decision came despite significant public support for the moratorium, evidenced by a petition with over 1,300 signatures and numerous letters from county residents. Commissioner Mike Hart, who initially proposed the moratorium at a March 3 meeting, argued that the development process was moving too quickly. He advocated for an independent environmental and economic impact study, specifically requesting that interested parties like Natelli Holdings and Amazon submit detailed plans to the county for review before any formal applications. However, Commissioner Earl "Buddy" Hance contended that existing county processes for project submission and permitting, which include opportunities for public input and BOCC approval, would be more transparent and effective. BOCC President Todd Ireland also expressed concerns about potential lawsuits from companies if a moratorium were enacted, suggesting that strengthening existing text amendments would be a better approach to protect county interests. Following the rejection of the moratorium, the BOCC did vote to continue exploring other solutions to safeguard the county.