Ridgecrest city council to submit request for intervener status over possible data center
The Ridgecrest city council has voted to submit a request for intervener status regarding a proposed data center in Inyokern, California. This move would allow the city to participate as a third-party in the regulatory process for the data center's application. The decision follows months of significant community pushback from residents in both Ridgecrest and Inyokern, who have voiced concerns over environmental impacts, noise, property values, and quality of life.
The Ridgecrest City Council has unanimously voted to seek intervener status for a proposed data center project slated for Inyokern, California. This action would grant Ridgecrest the right to participate as a third-party in the regulatory application process for the data center, should its request be approved by the relevant authorities.
This decision by the city council comes after widespread community opposition to the data center proposal. Residents from Ridgecrest and Inyokern have consistently attended city council meetings for several months, expressing a range of concerns about the project. Additionally, numerous letters of opposition have been submitted to the California Energy Commission's public dockets.
The primary objections raised by residents center on potential environmental and pollution issues, increased noise levels, unpleasant odors, negative aesthetic impacts, and broader quality of life concerns. There are also worries that the development could lead to a decrease in home values in the surrounding area.