Calvert County officials are taking significant steps to attract data centers, a move aimed at boosting local economic growth. During a recent informational session at the College of Southern Maryland, county representatives discussed the need for legislative authority to establish Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements for these facilities.

County Attorney John Norris emphasized the competitive landscape for data centers, noting that unlike other industries, these facilities can be located virtually anywhere. "Developers can take projects and put them anywhere they choose," Norris stated, highlighting the necessity for Calvert County to offer incentives to attract such transformational investments. The county is seeking tools from the Maryland General Assembly to create a more appealing financial environment for potential developers.

In addition to the economic discussions, the meeting addressed environmental considerations surrounding new projects. While no county-wide environmental impact studies have been conducted, each proposed project must undergo a rigorous three-step review process. This includes evaluations from multiple agencies, such as the Department of Public Works and the Maryland Department of Environment, ensuring that any development complies with local and state regulations.

The review process is designed to assess potential impacts on wildlife, stormwater management, and forest conservation, with specific mitigation requirements based on the size and location of the project. For larger developments, an environmental impact statement may be necessary, further ensuring that environmental concerns are adequately addressed.

As Calvert County positions itself to welcome data centers, the combination of economic incentives and thorough environmental oversight aims to create a balanced approach to development, fostering growth while safeguarding the community's natural resources. The county's next steps will involve presenting these proposals to the public and the state legislature, paving the way for potential future investments.