Counties scramble to respond to data centers, setting moratoriums, a ban
Maryland counties are actively responding to data center developments, with 13 counties enacting temporary moratoriums and Harford County imposing a complete ban. These actions stem from significant community opposition over environmental impacts, noise, and infrastructure concerns, leading to various regulatory and legal challenges across the state.
Maryland counties are grappling with the rapid proliferation of data centers, leading to widespread community opposition and a scramble by local governments to implement regulations. Currently, 13 counties have enacted temporary data center moratoriums, with Harford County being the first to impose a complete ban on such facilities.
Bryan Cornell and Krissy Flatau, residents of Harford County, successfully organized 'Our Land, Our Home, Our Harford' to advocate against data centers, citing concerns over quality of life. Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly supported the ban, stating the county lacked sufficient electrical capabilities for hyperscale centers. Meanwhile, Montgomery County extended its moratorium from six to 18 months, with County Executive Marc Elrich and Councilman Will Jawando emphasizing the need for careful consideration.
Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater also signed an order pausing new data center permitting until the end of the year. This followed a decision by the Frederick County Council to expand the data center zoning area surrounding the 'Quantum Frederick project' to 2,600 acres. Residents, dissatisfied with this expansion, collected over 20,000 signatures for a ballot referendum, but the Maryland Supreme Court ruled in June to keep the measure off the ballot after data center companies challenged its legality.
Environmental and community groups, including Marylanders for Data Center Reform, view moratoriums as a "natural reaction" to concerns about environmental impact, noise, and public health. However, the Maryland Tech Council warns against rushed policies that could jeopardize economic opportunities. Advocates like Taylor Frazier McCollum, Cornell, and Flatau express skepticism about moratoriums, believing they often pave the way for future development, and are committed to fighting against data centers in Maryland altogether.