Watchdogs of Fort Meade to Host Community Info Event Ahead of Data Center Vote

The Fort Meade Planning and Zoning Board voted on April 7, 2026, to approve a development agreement for a proposed 4.4 million square-foot data center. This decision forwards the project with a formal recommendation to the Fort Meade City Commission, which is scheduled to make a final decision on April 14. In anticipation of this critical vote, the grassroots organization "Watchdogs of Fort Meade" is hosting a "Family Fun Night & Data Center Info Event" on April 10 at Peace River Park. Raul Alfonso, chair of Watchdogs of Fort Meade, stated that the event aims to educate residents on the potential impacts of the large-scale data center, providing them with information and tools to "speak up and be heard" at the upcoming City Commission meeting. The proposed data center, planned for 1,300 acres, has raised significant concerns among residents regarding its long-term effects on local water resources, energy demand, air quality, and overall quality of life in the rural community. Alfonso emphasized that this initiative is about ensuring Fort Meade residents have a meaningful voice in decisions that will shape their town's future.