Frederick County Planning Commission seeks data center fact sheet for informed decisions

The Frederick County Planning Commission meeting on July 2, 2025, focused on the need for a comprehensive fact sheet regarding data centers, following recent discussions about their potential impacts on the community. A motion was proposed to direct the Planning Department to compile a concise, 10 to 20-page document outlining critical information about data centers, including their water and power usage, job creation potential, and visual impacts.

Commission member Roger Thomas emphasized the importance of having factual data to make informed decisions rather than relying on emotional responses. He expressed concern that previous discussions lacked sufficient information, which led to decisions that may not align with community needs. Thomas highlighted the necessity of understanding the pros and cons of data centers, including their environmental and economic implications.

The motion received mixed reactions from the commission members. While some supported the initiative, arguing that more information would aid in making better decisions, others questioned the need for further study, suggesting that the community's desires should be prioritized. Member Molly Markert pointed out the importance of considering the overall development strategy for the county, not just focusing on data centers.

Ultimately, the motion to request the Board of Supervisors to direct the Planning Department to create the fact sheet was approved, with a vote of 7-2. This decision marks a significant step towards ensuring that future discussions about data centers are grounded in factual information, allowing for more informed decision-making in the community's planning processes. The commission aims to address the community's concerns and preferences as they move forward with their comprehensive planning efforts.