Residents urge moratorium on hyperscale data centers; commissioners signal support for study

During the public‑comment period, multiple residents urged the Board of County Commissioners to approve a temporary moratorium on hyperscale data‑center approvals to allow the county time to study potential impacts on the Chesapeake Bay watershed, infrastructure, noise and public safety. Speakers asked the board to define the moratorium's objectives, include a transparent study process and consider a public advisory committee to produce policy recommendations before allowing further development approvals.

"Please vote yes for the moratorium Aug. 18 to allow time to address potential health risks and quality of life matters," Carl Elwein of Camp Kenoy Road told the board during public comment. Other speakers, including Sylvia Batang of Citizens for Calvert and Nancy Elwine, urged stronger findings in the proposed ordinance to reflect local environmental sensitivity and to prevent approvals being advanced under other permits while a moratorium is in place. The public also raised concerns about the rezoning process and the need for clearer public notice.

Several commissioners said they support a moratorium and asked staff to bring data‑center zoning and permitting off the list of allowed uses or to put a study on a future agenda. The board did not adopt a moratorium at the Aug. 4 meeting but several commissioners signaled they would consider stronger measures or an agenda item in the coming weeks.