PRINCE FREDERICK, MD — The Calvert County Board of County Commissioners addressed resident concerns over a nondisclosure agreement with Amazon Web Services and recent job postings for data center roles in Lusby during their March 3, 2026, regular meeting. Commissioners added the item to the agenda following social media discussions, invited an AWS representative to speak, and voted unanimously to initiate a process exploring a possible 24-month moratorium on data center approvals and permits.
Resident feedback highlighted secrecy surrounding the NDA, signed by some commissioners, amid Amazon job listings for positions like senior construction manager in data center construction in Lusby. Critics questioned potential tax incentives, ratepayer impacts from high energy demands, and environmental effects, drawing comparisons to other states where data centers have secured substantial subsidies—Amazon’s nationwide total is around $11.6 billion—and contributed to electricity price increases, such as 13 percent in Virginia and 16 percent in Illinois.
An AWS representative, Becky Ford, attended at the commissioners’ request from the previous night. Ford confirmed the NDA exists with AWS and permits confidential early-stage exploration, a standard practice for businesses considering investments. She stated no plans or permit applications have been filed, no agreements are in place, and no tax incentives or building relief have been negotiated. The job postings reflect standard early due diligence by Amazon and do not indicate a firm commitment to proceed.
Commissioners acknowledged the public input and committed to greater transparency. They agreed to schedule open public sessions within the next few weeks, where AWS can share general information on data centers, potential benefits, and development processes.
A motion by Commissioner Mike Hart, seconded by Commissioner Grasso, passed unanimously to start the process for a potential 24-month moratorium on data center-related approvals, permits, and similar actions. This step allows time for a comprehensive public environmental impact study. The vote launches ordinance drafting, public hearings, and required due process, but does not immediately enact the moratorium.
Calvert County has explored data center possibilities amid regional growth in the sector, driven by demand for cloud infrastructure near energy sources like Calvert Cliffs. Zoning updates effective March 1, 2025, limited locations and imposed requirements, with proposed further amendments in early 2026 to mandate closed-loop cooling, prohibit groundwater use for cooling, require developers to fund infrastructure, and enforce Tier 4 generator standards.
No specific sites, commitments, or incentives have been confirmed publicly. The Southern Maryland Chronicle reached out to the Calvert County Public Information Office and Board of County Commissioners, but had not received a response as of publishing.
Public pressure prompted the rapid response, including agenda addition and the AWS invitation. Officials emphasized no final decisions exist, positioning the discussions as preliminary. Residents are encouraged to attend upcoming sessions and provide input to shape any future outcomes.