Residents demand transparency, independent studies and a moratorium as data‑center plans near Lusby draw criticism

Public comment focused heavily on proposed data‑center development near Lusby and Constellation land. Patrick Flaherty told the board that families near the Cove Point LNG facility have lived with persistent industrial noise and that the county lacks a proactive noise‑monitoring program. "The public's being told that the land... has been zoned heavy industrial for many years... This is incorrect," one speaker said in a longer public comment describing land‑use history; several speakers urged a moratorium and more complete, independent studies on water, wetlands, noise, traffic and cumulative impacts before moving forward.

Patty Stoeffler (a candidate for commissioner at large) showed a map from an Amazon Web Services presentation and said about 20 private residences sit near the southern edge of the proposed complex and that a county park with ballfields abuts the site. Commissioners discussed potential responses including a zoning text amendment, development‑condition agreements, and asking the Planning Commission for conceptual review; the county attorney reminded the board such ordinance changes require public hearings. Some commissioners expressed support for a one‑year moratorium to allow process review; a motion for a longer moratorium was defeated on a voice vote, and discussion was referred for future agenda items and possible consultant/attorney follow up.