Worcester weighs future growth amid data center moratorium debate
Worcester County, Maryland officials are considering a one-year moratorium on data centers and cable landing stations to update zoning regulations. The move comes as Globalinx Data Centers proposes a cable landing station, raising concerns among local community groups about environmental impacts and resource allocation. Commissioners voted to advance the moratorium, with a final ordinance expected at their next meeting.
Worcester County, Maryland, is moving towards a one-year moratorium on data centers and cable landing stations as county officials assess future growth and update outdated zoning language. The Worcester County Commissioners voted to advance the temporary pause after a proposal by Globalinx Data Centers for a cable landing station near the Ocean City airport.
The issue has sparked public discussion, including during a Planning Commission meeting where Wendie Green, representing the Assateague MD Coastal Community Coalition, voiced concerns. Green stated the moratorium provides crucial time to research potential impacts such as noise, air, and light pollution, and effects on natural areas like forests, marshes, and waterways along the Route 611 corridor and Assateague.
County Commissioner Eric Fiori acknowledged that the county's current planning and zoning policies have not kept pace with new technologies like data centers. Fiori highlighted concerns about the strain on water, sewer, and electricity resources, as well as the limited availability of industrial land in Worcester County. He questioned whether these finite resources should prioritize data-related facilities or other forms of economic development, like manufacturing, that provide more jobs.
While Fiori initially supported a countywide ban, commissioners opted for a one-year moratorium. Development Review and Permitting Director Jennifer Keener is tasked with updating zoning language, and Environmental Programs Director Robert Mitchell will review natural resource concerns. The moratorium is not yet final, with an ordinance expected to be presented to commissioners at their next meeting for approval.