# North American data center development opposition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/north-american-data-center-development-opposition
> Updated: 2026-09-23T22:11:27.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Community opposition to data center developments has emerged in both Burlington, Ontario, and Baltimore, Maryland.

In Burlington, residents attended an open house to discuss a proposed 20-megawatt facility on South Service Rd. Concerns centered on energy consumption and the facility’s role in supporting artificial intelligence. Some community members expressed frustration regarding the informal format of the public consultation.

In Baltimore, residents are opposing Council Bill 26-0174. The proposed legislation would require developers to secure conditional use permits and undergo health equity assessments to evaluate noise, heat, and environmental impacts within a 1.5-mile radius of any facility. While the bill focuses on shifting the burden of proof to developers, local advocacy groups have gathered support for a complete ban on data centers.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-23: Baltimore residents oppose proposed data center legislation

Baltimore residents are protesting a proposed bill that would require data center developers to undergo health equity assessments and obtain conditional use permits to address community concerns.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/baltimore-residents-oppose-proposed-data-center-legislation

### 2026-09-18: Burlington residents raise concerns over proposed data centre

Burlington residents raised concerns over energy use and AI implications during an open house for a proposed 20-megawatt data centre.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/burlington-residents-raise-concerns-over-proposed-data-centre

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Cite as: North American data center development opposition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/north-american-data-center-development-opposition