Residents of Monterey Park have made history by voting to ban data centers in their city, marking the first time a U.S. city has enacted such a prohibition through a public vote.
On Tuesday, 86% of voters supported Measure NDC, which amends the city’s land use policies to permanently ban data centers unless overturned by a future vote.
The decision follows widespread concerns about the environmental and infrastructural impacts of data centers. The measure defines data centers as facilities housing large groups of networked computer systems for data storage and processing. These centers, often criticized for high energy consumption and potential environmental harm, have faced opposition in various communities across the country.
Monterey Park’s City Council had previously imposed a moratorium on data centers in response to a proposal by HMC StratCap to build a large data center in the city. The investment firm withdrew its application after the council moved to place Measure NDC on the ballot. Councilmember Jose Sanchez emphasized the significance of the vote, stating that it reflects the community’s strong opposition to data centers.
The measure’s passage is part of a broader trend, with other cities and states considering similar actions. In Port Washington, Wisconsin, voters approved a measure requiring voter approval for data center tax incentives. Upcoming votes in Michigan and Nevada will address zoning and development issues related to data centers.
The Data Center Coalition, a trade association, has expressed concern over the ban, arguing it could hinder economic growth and job creation. However, local organizers, including the group No Data Center in Monterey Park, celebrated the vote as a victory for community-driven decision-making.
As data centers continue to proliferate, the debate over their environmental and economic impacts is likely to intensify, with Monterey Park’s decision serving as a potential model for other communities.
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