5 things to know about data centers in Baltimore County
The Baltimore County Council has extended its moratorium on data center development for another year, until the end of 2027, amid widespread public opposition and environmental concerns. This extension allows the county more time to establish comprehensive regulations while also awaiting potential statewide action from the Maryland General Assembly and Governor Wes Moore's new task force.
The Baltimore County Council unanimously voted to extend its moratorium on new data center projects through the end of 2027, giving leaders more time to develop comprehensive regulations amidst significant public opposition. This decision prolongs an existing pause, pushing the freeze on data center development for at least another year. Council members like Nino Mangione (Republican), Julian Jones (Democrat), David Marks (Republican), and Council Chair Mike Ertel (Republican) emphasized the need to "get it right" and respond to widespread citizen concerns about the facilities' impact.
The move follows a period of intense debate and a recent report from the county planning board. This study, which the board approved last week, proposes stricter oversight, including prohibiting data centers on agricultural land, within 750 feet of homes, and outside the Urban-Rural Demarcation Line. It also recommends against financial incentives and by-right approvals, urging developers to minimize water usage. Candidates for local office, including Democrat Shawn McIntosh, have voiced strong opinions on the matter, with some advocating for outright bans while others support the moratorium to allow for careful regulatory development.
Adding another layer to the issue, Maryland lawmakers are expected to consider a statewide moratorium when they convene in January. Governor Wes Moore has indicated a willingness to sign such a bill and has recently established a task force to guide the state's decision-making on data centers. The Baltimore County Council's extension allows them to observe and potentially align with state-level actions, reflecting a broader, growing backlash against data center development across the country due to concerns over electricity, water, and land consumption.