(2/2024) After several months of researching, hearing presentations, and meeting with various experts, the Data Centers Workgroup, formed by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, is nearing completion of the assigned task. I greatly appreciate County Executive Fitzwater appointing me as one of the co-chairs of this workgroup, and for the opportunity to work with each member. Since last summer, members of the workgroup have devoted a lot of time to this effort, understanding the important implications of their possible recommendations. Everyone brought enthusiasm, expertise, and a desire to balance the risks and benefits that data centers can bring. The result has been thoughtful and robust discussions from a balanced group of stakeholders. This is a unique approach compared to surrounding counties that also have opportunities to incorporate the data center industry into their local economies.
To make this task manageable, three subgroups were formed. One subgroup dealt with issues related to location siting. One of the biggest complaints about data centers in neighboring counties in Northern Virginia is that you can find them near neighborhoods, schools, office buildings, and other areas where industrial buildings interfere with natural landscapes. In Frederick County, we have areas in agricultural preservation, and the intention of adding to the number of acres persevered. The Siting subgroup looked at items such as soil types and different approaches to zoning to make sure any updates to the County’s current Critical Data Infrastructure regulation specifically addresses Frederick County’s interests, and that they are aligned with the Livable Frederick Master Plan.
Sustainably is an important component of responsibly incorporating the data center industry into the County. Another subgroup was tasked to research today’s industry standards and best practices for energy usage, so that reasonable but meaningful sustainability perimeters could be recommended. Data centers use large amounts of water and electricity. Like other types of buildings, appliances, and automobiles, levels of efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions can vary widely. Another concern we heard was the amount of sound produced by data centers. We learned there are ways to address this issue with site and building design and natural barriers of fields and trees. Although the data center industry has made great market-driven strides in energy efficiency and sustainability, reasonable requirements protect residents and natural resources in Frederick County.
Another subgroup explored how the County could best benefit economically from the data center industry. Neighboring counties have realized hundreds of millions of dollars per year in tax revenue. With society’s increasing reliance on technology and internet access to live our lives, the data center industry continues to grow every day. New technologies like AI (Artificial Intelligence) will accelerate this growth. Given Frederick County’s proximity to "the heart of the internet" in Ashburn, Virginia, through which 70% of the world’s internet traffic flows, we remain a desirable location for data center development. We considered different forms of taxation or fees, which could ensure Frederick County derives an appropriate level of value. The County could also utilize "Community Benefit Agreements" to support local technical education, local technical jobs, and other projects. To successfully integrate data centers into the local economy, a mutually beneficial relationship must be
developed. The Community Benefits subgroup has worked to identify ways for that relationship to happen.
The Data Centers Workgroup met on January 25th to discuss the findings of each subgroup. There will be one more meeting in February to determine the final recommendations that will be reported to County Executive Fitzwater in March. I don’t have that date at the time I’m writing this month’s column. However, you can check the Data Centers Workgroup webpage for this and more information. The address is www.frederickcountymd.gov/8544/Data-Centers-Workgroup.
We are also heading into budget season. Please feel free to contact me with your ideas and budget priorities. Your input is always greatly appreciated. You can reach me at rknapp@frederickcountymd.gov.
