Monterey Park, California, Becomes First U.S. City to Ban Data Centers
LA-area voters approve what appears to be first US data center ban
The Hill
Image: The Hill
Voters in Monterey Park, California, have approved a citywide ban on data centers, with 86% in favor. The measure aims to protect air quality, drinking water, and public health, responding to concerns over a proposed data center project. This ban reflects growing national resistance to data centers amid the AI boom.
- 0186% of voters in Monterey Park, California, supported the ban on data centers.
- 02The ban aims to protect air quality, drinking water, and public health.
- 03The decision follows a proposed data center project that was withdrawn after a city moratorium.
- 04Data center bans are gaining traction nationwide due to community pushback against their impacts.
- 05A Gallup poll indicates that 71% of U.S. adults oppose local data center construction.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In a significant move, voters in Monterey Park, California, have approved what appears to be the first citywide ban on data centers in the United States, with approximately 86% of voters supporting the measure. The ban is intended to safeguard air quality, drinking water resources, and public health, while also addressing concerns over rising electricity and water rates. This decision was influenced by a proposed data center project that was withdrawn earlier this year after the city council enacted a moratorium on such constructions. The trend of imposing data center moratoriums and restrictions is spreading across the country as communities express increasing resistance to these facilities, which are crucial for the growing AI sector. Earlier this year, a city in Wisconsin passed a referendum requiring voter approval for large-scale data center projects receiving tax benefits. Additionally, while some state legislatures are contemplating similar bans, none have been enacted yet. A recent Gallup poll revealed that 71% of U.S. adults oppose data center construction in their areas, citing concerns over local resources, costs, and quality of life.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The ban on data centers is expected to influence local development and environmental policies in Monterey Park.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think about the ban on data centers in Monterey Park?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.



