Prince George's County Council passes 2-year moratorium on new data centers | NBC4 Washington
The Prince George's County Council passed a two-year moratorium on new data center development after a spirited debate. Supporters cited concerns over environmental and energy impacts, while opponents worried about economic loss and job creation. The moratorium can be lifted if comprehensive legislation is passed to govern data centers.
The Prince George's County Council approved a two-year moratorium on new data center development following extensive debate. This measure is considered one of the most stringent pauses on data centers in the region. Supporters highlighted concerns about health, environmental, and energy impacts, arguing that the pause is necessary to allow for thorough planning and responsible development. They emphasized that it is a "huge decision" that requires careful consideration to "get it right."
The moratorium's resolution was modified to allow for its early lifting if comprehensive legislation for data center development is passed. Community members, according to one council member, have "spoken loud and clear" against data centers in the county. However, there was a failed attempt to postpone the moratorium, and some council members expressed apprehension about the two-year halt, viewing it as a "rush to judgment" that would be "suicidal" for them.
Conversely, a group wearing "Face the Future" apparel advocated for data centers, citing potential job creation and significant tax revenue for the county. They claimed a large-scale data center campus could generate "tens of millions of dollars" in tax revenue. Separately, officials from the Aisha Braveboy administration confirmed the County Executive had signed an executive order, effective through September, to halt permitting applications for data centers, including a proposed project at the former Landover Mall site.