A grassroots campaign led by a Maryland activist has successfully stalled a $5 billion data center development in Prince George’s County, even as the local government grapples with a $130 million budget shortfall.
Taylor Frazier McCollum, a former waxing center employee turned environmental activist, collected over 25,000 signatures opposing the project planned for a long-vacant shopping mall site. The property has sat unused since the mall closed in 2002.
‘Money Is a Made-Up Concept’
McCollum dismissed economic arguments for the project in an interview, stating: “Money is, you know, a made-up concept. We buy into it every day and we choose that this has value and this doesn’t have value – and to me the environment has the highest and utmost value.”
Her reaction to learning about the data center proposal was blunt: “Oh, hell no.” McCollum raised concerns about potential water pollution and diesel generators near residential areas, asking: “Why would you want to bring water-polluting, diesel-generating data centers right down the street from where people live, work, play?”
Economic Development vs. Environmental Concerns
Kelly Schulz of the Maryland Tech Council argued the project would create high-paying jobs and boost tax revenues without raising taxes. “Thoughtful development of a data center enables Prince George’s County to secure its position as a major digital hub,” Schulz said, noting the potential for “massive new investment” and a diversified tax base.
McCollum has suggested alternative uses for the property, including a trampoline park to replace the recently closed Six Flags amusement park in the area.
National Debate Over Data Centers
The Prince George’s County controversy reflects a growing national divide. While some communities have welcomed data centers for their economic benefits – like Loudoun County, Virginia, where teacher salaries rose 40% from 2010-2023 – opposition has grown. More than 400 local groups now actively oppose new data center projects across the country.
In Richland Parish, Louisiana, a Meta data center expansion helped fund $50,000 teacher bonuses. “With bonuses like that, the best educators come to you,” said Superintendent Sheldon Jones. “We could become one of the best school districts in our region.”
The stalled Maryland project highlights the tension between economic development and environmental priorities as communities weigh the costs and benefits of becoming part of America’s digital infrastructure.
Source: www.dailywire.com โ https://www.dailywire.com/news/left-wing-activist-helps-stall-5-billion-data-center-in-cash-strapped-county