Frederick County Schedules Public Open Houses on Data Center Regulations
Frederick County, Maryland, is holding public open houses in September to inform residents about data center regulations. These events follow executive orders from County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, which include pausing new data center applications and requiring developers to register with the Maryland Public Service Commission.
Frederick County, Maryland, is hosting two informational open houses in September to educate residents on how the county regulates data center development. These sessions, scheduled for September 2 at the Claggett Center in Adamstown and September 9 at the Urbana Volunteer Fire Department, will feature representatives from various county agencies, including Planning and Permitting and Emergency Management, to answer questions.
These events are a direct response to executive orders issued by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. The orders came after the Maryland Supreme Court ruled that proposed data center zoning restrictions could not be included on the upcoming fall ballot. One executive order establishes a moratorium, halting the acceptance of new Critical Digital Infrastructure applications until December 31, allowing the state to complete its Data Center Impact Analysis. A second order mandates that developers provide proof of registration with the Maryland Public Service Commission before initiating the county's development review process. County officials state the open houses aim to enhance transparency and resident understanding of data center project regulation.