Calvert’s Environmental Commission Pleads For Data Center Pause

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County’s Environmental Commission brought its request to the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to pause data center development until more studies can be be conducted.

In addition, the Commission cited several areas in Maryland that have put pauses or moratoriums in place to effectively evaluate the long-term risks and environmental impact of data centers – much of which is still unknown.

“Other Maryland counties have already recognized the complexity of this issue and have taken deliberate steps to pause and study potential impacts. These actions reflect a prudent and measured approach to governance; one that prioritizes informed decision-making over expedited approvals,” the commission wrote in its letter.

Areas referenced were Baltimore County, Prince George’s County, Baltimore City and Frederick County.

The Commission reiterated its desire for an immediate pause in a memo submitted May 28 for the June 2 meeting. Members of the Environmental Commission said that due to Calvert County’s unique ecosystem and size, any environmental considerations are unique to the county and require specific considerations that may not be adequately covered by other agencies.

And, like many residents, the Environmental Commission members believed they lacked the proper information to make any kind of informed decision on data centers.

“On the Environmental Commission, we’re scientists, and as scientists, we do not believe that we have the information and we do not believe you have adequate information to make informed decisions for Calvert County relative to data centers,” said Cristin Fuller, vice chair of the Commission.

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