Frederick County data center referendum faces legal challenge, shapes local election

The Frederick County Board of Elections has filed its initial responses in one of the legal challenges regarding the data center zone referendum, indicating it does not object to an expedited timeline for the case. The board cited ongoing preparations for the 23rd gubernatorial primary and the potential impact of delays on election operations. The referendum committee, however, is seeking more time, citing a new attorney and suggesting that five related lawsuits should be consolidated. The core of this legal battle is whether the referendum on the Adamstown data center zones will appear on the November ballot. Separately, Democratic candidate Paul Gilligan has centered his campaign for a House of Delegate seat in District 4 on protecting Frederick County's rural character, with the Adamstown Data Center project serving as a primary motivator. Gilligan argues that current rural preservation policies have weakened, and the extensive data center buildout poses a threat to planning, environmental balance, and the county's identity. He clarifies that he is not against data centers in general but believes they should be consolidated in appropriate business areas with stronger oversight. Gilligan highlights his past experience as Birkensville mayor and his long public service as relevant to his understanding of planning and preservation. The news roundup also touched on broader Maryland issues, including steep health insurance premium increases for Affordable Care Act marketplace buyers after federal tax credits expired at the end of 2025. Additionally, Montgomery County council members signaled a likely approval for a progressive income tax plan, which would raise rates for higher earners and lower them for residents earning under $150,000, while also eliminating the county's income tax offset credit.