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 This decision was influenced by a proposed data center project that was withdrawn earlier this year after the city council enacted a moratorium on such constructions.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.