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Residents and proponents trade warnings over data-center policy at Prince George's County Council
Summary
Public commenters at the June 2 council meeting split between urging careful safeguards and arguing delays will shift economic opportunity away from Prince George's County; speakers pressed for clearer frameworks or stronger protections for residents.
A divided public-comment period at the Prince George's County Council meeting on June 2 highlighted competing views about whether and how the county should permit data-center development.
Several residents urged transparency and strong safeguards. Ursula Davis told the council that any move toward data-center approvals should be accompanied by clear public explanations of safeguards, conditions and protections so that “the public understand not just what you decided, but why and how you intend to ensure that this development serves as a long term interest of Prince George's County.” Another commenter raised questions about lost public trust after recent budget processes and asked whether the council had obtained legal advice about appropriations.
At the same time, speakers representing industry and development interests warned that indefinite delay or an unclear policy signal would send jobs, tax revenue and investment to neighboring jurisdictions. Claude Rucker told the council that data centers “bring long term tax revenue, infrastructure investment, and the opportunity to position our jurisdiction as a leader in the digital economy,” and Eric James warned that companies will invest where local policy is predictable. A separate speaker encouraged the council to act on a study commissioned last year, saying continued delay is itself a decision that can carry consequences for the county’s competitiveness.
Why it matters: Data-center projects raise trade-offs the council must weigh — potential tax and infrastructure benefits versus energy demand, land-use and environmental impacts. Commenters on both sides asked the council to prioritize clear conditions, community benefits and transparent processes.
What the council will do next: No final action on a county-wide data-center policy occurred at the June 2 meeting. Related studies and committee referrals were mentioned during business items; councilors indicated the matter requires further deliberation and possible committee work in coming weeks.
Representative speakers: The record includes public commenters listed in the meeting roster and those who spoke from the public podium during the allotted comment period.
