🏗️ The Landover Data Center: Who’s Really Calling the Shots?
👥 A Rallying Cry from Inside Park & Planning
Sources inside the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) are sounding the alarm. Staff describe a climate of fear, retaliation, and political patronage since County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Planning Board Chair Darryl Barnes took the reins. One employee, speaking anonymously, said:
> “They’ve threatened to fire people who get in their way… Barnes brought in unqualified loyalists like Darius Stanton and Gwen McCall-Winston. It’s all about control.”
The concern isn’t just about personnel. It’s about what’s being pushed through the system—and who benefits.
🧩 The Players Behind the Curtain
Let’s map the influence chain as described by multiple sources:
| Name | Role | Alleged Influence |
| Jack Johnson | Former County Exec, convicted of corruption | Seen as the architect behind the scenes |
| Michael Arrington | Lobbyist, fundraiser, former Delegate | Allegedly channels Johnson’s agenda |
| Darryl Barnes | Planning Board Chair | Appointed by Braveboy, seen as a loyal executor |
| Michael Lerner | Billionaire, owns Nationals & Landover Mall site | Wants to offload dead property via data center deal |
Jack Johnson, released from federal custody in 2017 after pleading guilty to extortion and evidence tampering, is described by insiders as orchestrating the current play through surrogates. Michael Arrington, who has not been accused of any wrongdoing, is seen as the connective tissue—close to Johnson, influential, and well-positioned.
Barnes, appointed in July 2025, is viewed by staff as a pliable figure. “He’ll do what he’s told,” one longtime observer said. “He needs the job, and he’s brought in his usual crew to help push this through.”
🏢 Why Landover Mall Matters
The proposed data center at the long-vacant Landover Mall site has sparked outrage. Residents packed a recent task force meeting, chanting “Hey hey! Ho ho! These data centers have got to go!”. The land is owned by Lerner Enterprises, and the project could bring a $5 billion investment—but also environmental risks, increased energy costs, and displacement concerns.
Councilmember Krystal Oriadha called the process “unconscionable,” noting that the Planning Board can move forward without council approval due to a 2021 law. That law is now under fire.
🧠 Strategic Questions for the Public
- Why was Barnes appointed so quickly and quietly?
- Why are council members like Ed Burroughs regularly seen at Largo HQ?
- Why is the Montgomery County side of M-NCPPC being sidelined in a bi-county agency?
- Why are longtime insiders describing this as “Jack Johnson 2.0”?
📣 Today’s Rally: What’s at Stake
The community is mobilizing. A petition opposing the data center has gathered over 19,000 signatures. Councilmember Wala Blegay plans to introduce a moratorium bill. But insiders warn: without public pressure, the deal may already be too far along.
📝 Footnotes
1. Jack Johnson’s corruption conviction and sentencing:
FBI press release on Johnson’s 7-year sentence
2. Jack Johnson’s full biography and indictment timeline:
Wikipedia entry on Jack B. Johnson
3. Michael Arrington’s political and lobbying background:
Maryland State Archives bio
4. Darryl Barnes appointed Planning Board Chair by Braveboy:
M-NCPPC official announcement
5. Gwen McCall-Winston and Darius Stanton appointments:
M-NCPPC press releases on Gwen McCall-Winston
M-NCPPC press release on Darius Stanton
6. Community protest against Landover Mall data center:
NBC4 coverage of massive turnout
7. WTOP report on rally and council pushback:
WTOP article on rally and moratorium bill
8. DC News Now coverage of environmental concerns and council reaction:
DC News Now article
9. Krystal Oriadha and Wala Blegay’s legislative response:
Councilmembers discuss moratorium and lack of transparency