ADAMSTOWN, Md. — Frederick County leaders passed a major zoning change that could transform farmland near Adamstown into sites for data centers. Supporters argue the move could bring jobs and revenue, while neighbors fear it will disrupt their rural way of life.

On Tuesday night, the County Council advanced a zoning overlay that allows data centers to be built on about 2,500 acres near the former Eastalco industrial site north of Adamstown. The council members discussed their reasons for voting for and against the overlay. In the end, they voted 5-2 to pass it.

County officials stress that the land accounts for less than 1% of Frederick’s total acreage, requires five acres of farmland preservation for every acre developed, and mandates a 500-foot buffer from homes.

Residents have spent

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