October GHC Regular Monthly Meeting: "Data Centers: The Loudoun County Experience” with Joe Kroboth, Deputy County Administrator with Loudoun County, VA On October 30th, 2026, the Greater Hagerstown Committee (GHC) welcomed Joe Kroboth, Deputy County Administrator of Loudoun County, Virginia, for a timely and informative presentation on “Data Centers: The Loudoun County Experience.” Mr. Kroboth formerly worked for Washington County Government as our Emergency Services Director and Public Works Director, so has over 30 years of experience with both counties. With data center development becoming an increasingly important topic in Washington County and across our region, Mr. Kroboth provided valuable firsthand insight into Loudoun County’s experience as home to the world's largest concentration of data centers. His presentation explored the significant economic benefits the industry has brought to Loudoun County, including job creation and tax revenue, while also addressing the challenges associated with rapid development, particularly energy demands, water usage, noise, infrastructure, land use, and community concerns. One of the morning’s key takeaways was the importance of proactive planning. Mr. Kroboth emphasized the need for communities to carefully consider zoning regulations, infrastructure capacity, appropriate locations, and development standards before welcoming this type of investment. The presentation also provided an opportunity for thoughtful questions and discussion about what lessons from Loudoun County's experience may be applicable to Washington County as our community considers potential data center development. We are grateful for Joe Kroboth sharing his extensive knowledge, experience, and balanced perspective on this complex issue. We also appreciate the strong turnout from our GHC members and the other community leaders we invited to join us for this important conversation. GHC remains committed to bringing people together, sharing information, and encouraging informed, constructive dialogue on issues that impact the future of our community. For those who were unable to attend, or would like to revisit the presentation, we encourage you to explore the resources below: Joe Kroboth's PowerPoint Presentation: https://www.greaterhagerstown.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-10-30-GHC-Monthly-Meeting-October-WEBSITE.pdf Loudoun County's Webpage on Data Centers: https://www.loudoun.gov/6188/Data-Centers-in-Loudoun-County Loudoun County's Citizen Fact Sheet on Data Centers: https://www.loudoun.gov/DocumentCenter/View/222193/FINAL-Data-Center-Fact-Sheet-2026?bidId= Loudoun County's Citizen Guide on Data Centers: https://www.loudoun.gov/DocumentCenter/View/222194/FINAL-Data-Center---Residents?bidId= YouTube Video of Meeting: https://youtu.be/kitdXFzNNgM?si=9v7By3ASSVGJ9Sgf