Key facts
- Monterey Park voters overwhelmingly approved a permanent ban on new data centers.
- Monterey Park is the first city in the nation to ban data centers by public vote.
- Residents' concerns include impacts on power, water, and quality of life.
- The City of Coachella imposed a temporary 45-day ban on data center developments.
- Coachella terminated its agreement with Stronghold Power, canceling a project.
- Coachella is considering a permanent ban on 'tech campuses'.
- A recent survey shows increased American opposition to new data centers.
- The technology industry is experiencing unease due to public opposition.
Residents of Monterey Park, California, have overwhelmingly voted to enact a permanent ban on new data centers, marking a significant development as the city becomes the first in the nation to implement such a prohibition via public vote. This decision underscores growing community concerns regarding the impact of data centers on essential resources like power and water, as well as their effect on the overall quality of life for residents. The vote in Monterey Park reflects a broader trend of increasing opposition to data center development across the United States.
In parallel, the City of Coachella has also taken action against data center projects. Coachella's city council imposed a temporary 45-day ban on data center developments and voted to terminate its agreement with Stronghold Power. This termination effectively canceled a previously approved project due to substantial resident backlash. The city is now actively considering the implementation of a permanent ban on similar 'tech campuses.' These local actions align with a wider national sentiment, as a recent survey indicates a significant increase in American opposition to the construction of new data centers. This growing public unease is causing concern within the technology industry, which relies heavily on these facilities for its operations and expansion.