Baltimore residents oppose proposed data center legislation

Baltimore residents are expressing opposition to Council Bill 26-0174, a proposed piece of legislation regarding the development of data centers in the city. Introduced by Councilwoman Phylicia Porter, the bill would require developers to obtain a conditional use permit and complete a health equity assessment.

This assessment would examine potential health and environmental impacts within a 1.5-mile radius of any proposed facility. Porter noted that the measure aims to shift the burden of proof onto developers to disclose impacts rather than requiring residents to demonstrate harm. Concerns raised by community members during recent hearings include noise pollution, increased heat, and general impacts on public health and neighborhood integrity.

While the bill does not currently propose a total ban on data centers, Porter indicated openness to such a measure if introduced. A petition for a complete ban has reportedly gathered significant support from local advocacy groups.