A state judge ruled against a petition seeking to put Frederick County’s data center ordinance to a referendum.
Last week, a state judge ruled against a petition seeking to put Frederick County’s newly enacted data center ordinance before voters in a public referendum. The dispute centers on broader concerns about data center development and its potential impacts on the surrounding community.
County officials spent months studying data center growth nationally, with particular attention to neighboring Loudoun County, Virginia, to understand what has worked, what has not, and how Frederick County could avoid the challenges experienced elsewhere. Two of the county’s primary goals were to prevent unchecked sprawl and establish strong environmental standards before large-scale development takes hold.
Although petitioners gathered the required number of signatures, Judge James A. Bonifant ruled that, under the Frederick County Charter, a zoning ordinance is not classified as a law and therefore is not subject to public referendum. The court also found flaws in how the petition presented information to voters. Residents backing the referendum effort are expected to appeal the decision.
The developments in Frederick County highlight the growing tension around data center development and energy policy more broadly. Residents are understandably concerned about rising energy costs and the potential external impacts of major new facilities. At the same time, Frederick County’s approach reflects an effort to get ahead of the issue by setting clearer rules, limiting sprawl, and requiring stronger safeguards before data center growth accelerates.
If you’re following energy issues, be sure to check out The Briefing Room, a new limited series from the Conduit Street Podcast. Airing Tuesdays this summer, the series breaks down complex topics over several weeks through conversations with key decision-makers shaping Maryland’s policy landscape. Our first five episodes focus on energy: from grid reliability and generation challenges to local siting concerns and rising demand. The Briefing Room offers county leaders and policy watchers a clear, accessible look at the issues driving Maryland’s public policy landscape.
