Data center developer proposes site and park in Lusby

Natelli Holdings, a prospective data center developer, presented concept plans for a $3 billion data center campus, the Appeal Digital Park, and a $30 million regional park in Lusby, Calvert County, Maryland, during a Calvert County commissioners' meeting. Tom Natelli Jr., vice-president of Natelli Holdings, indicated his company's interest in the location began in late 2024 and highlighted that the project would utilize non-potable water from the Solomons Wastewater Treatment Plant for cooling and connect to the Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative grid, with the company covering connection costs. The proposal met with strong public opposition during the meeting. Residents like Kenneth Lee, James McQueen, and Lindsay Coach expressed concerns about noise pollution, environmental impact on wildlife and human health, and water usage, urging for an immediate moratorium. Commissioner Mike Hart (R), representing the district where the project would be located, reiterated his intention to enact a two-year moratorium on data center projects in Calvert County, with a public hearing on the issue expected in April. Conversely, Tom Clark, a union electrician, spoke in favor of the project, citing potential job creation for local tradesmen and emphasizing the necessity of data centers for modern technology. Julie Oberg, the county's economic development director, noted in a memo that the proposed site aligns with existing industrial land use and would undergo standard reviews.