'Not the place for data centers': Bill would pause construction

An emergency measure, Harford County Council Bill 26-005, has been introduced to implement a 90-day moratorium on data center construction in Harford County, Maryland. This bill comes amid universal and bipartisan agreement among local lawmakers and residents that data centers are not suitable for the county, particularly on agricultural-zoned land. Harford County Council President Patrick Vincenti, a Republican, stated, "Harford County is not the place for data centers. It is absolutely not the place on agriculture-zoned ground, never would be." Councilwoman Jessica Boyle-Tsottles, R-District E, echoed this sentiment, confirming she would not approve data centers in the county. Other council members, including Vice President Tony Giangiordano, R-District C, suggested extending the pause to 180 days. Councilwoman Nolanda Robert, D-District A, revealed that developers are actively looking at the Mountain Branch golf course in Joppa, and she has communicated strong community opposition to them. Residents who spoke at Tuesday's council meeting unanimously voiced concerns over potential impacts such as noise, pollution, chemical use, and strain on the water supply. Resident Corey Urik stated, "The upside that data centers promise is simply outweighed by the downsides. No data centers in Harford County, not now, not ever." This legislative move follows a presentation to lawmakers by the Maryland Tech Council's Data Center Alliance, which highlighted the economic benefits of data centers, including job creation and economic activity. However, Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly has also expressed his opposition to data center development in the county. A public hearing on the emergency bill is set for May 19.