New moratorium extension

Baltimore County Council extended data center pause through 2027.

“Before we open more of this up to Baltimore County and development, I think that it’s crucial we get it right”

Upcoming council changes

Six new council members will take office after November election.

Political support for pause

Both parties support extending moratorium rather than banning data centers.

“If data center companies want to operate in Baltimore County, they should have to develop better technology and demonstrate that these facilities can be built without consuming disproportionate amounts of electricity, water and land”

New regulatory report

Planning board recommends stricter oversight for data centers.

“The report recommends prohibiting data centers on agricultural land, within 750 feet of homes, and in areas outside the Urban-Rural Demarcation Line”

State-level action expected

Maryland lawmakers may enact statewide moratorium by 2027.

“We want to see what the Maryland General Assembly is going to do first, and we’ll act accordingly”

Public opposition grows

Standing-room-only crowds oppose data center projects.

“The planning board’s public hearings on data centers in May and September drew standing-room-only crowds and hours of public comment”

County executive candidates

Both candidates support moratorium extension for regulation.

“I am not opposed to data centers, per se, because I think they can provide tremendous potential for our area”

What happens next

Baltimore County waits for state action before finalizing regulations.

“We want to see what the Maryland General Assembly is going to do first, and we’ll act accordingly”