Baltimore County extends data center moratorium amid community concerns
The Baltimore County Council unanimously voted to extend its moratorium on new data center development until Dec. 31, 2027. This decision provides the Baltimore County Planning Board more time to study the potential environmental and infrastructure impacts, addressing ongoing community concerns. Residents have raised questions regarding energy costs, water usage, noise, air pollution, and the disproportionate zoning of data centers in predominantly Black communities.
The Baltimore County Council unanimously voted on Sept. 22 to extend its moratorium on new data center development until Dec. 31, 2027. This extension grants the Baltimore County Planning Board additional time to comprehensively study the potential environmental and infrastructure impacts of these facilities, responding to persistent community concerns regarding their effects on local resources and quality of life.
Councilmembers David Marks (R-District 5), Mike Ertel (D-District 6), Nino Mangione (R-District 3), Todd K. Crandell (R-District 7), and Izzy Patoka (D-District 2), who co-sponsored the bill, testified in favor of the extension. Councilman Todd K. Crandell highlighted the industry's failure to address public allegations regarding environmental impact and energy costs, emphasizing the necessity of the pause. Councilman Izzy Patoka noted widespread community support for the moratorium, stating he had not encountered a single resident who opposed the pause.
Residents, including Woodlawn's Veneitia Bell, have voiced significant concerns about the location and impacts of data centers. Bell specifically questioned Councilman Julian Jones’ (D-District 4) previous support for Bill 54-24, which zoned data center development primarily in areas east of Pulaski Highway or south of Liberty Road—regions that include Jones's own residence and several majority-Black communities. Bell expressed fears that such zoning could disproportionately burden these communities with environmental and infrastructure strains, including increased electricity and water demands, air pollution, noise, and depressed property values.
Jones, who ultimately voted for the moratorium extension, clarified that Bill 54-24’s primary focus was battery storage regulations, with data centers not being a significant concern at the time of its passage in 2024. He denied any intention to target marginalized communities with the zoning legislation. The moratorium extension reflects a consensus within the council that further study is required before allowing more data center development, acknowledging the economic development potential but prioritizing resident well-being and environmental considerations.