High Desert Residents Sound the Alarm on Potential Data Centers in Adelanto
Adelanto, California residents vociferously opposed a proposed zoning amendment that would allow data centers in the high desert city, citing concerns over water usage and electrical grid strain. The City of Adelanto Planning Commission subsequently voted 3-2 to reject the amendment, though it still awaits a final vote from the City Council.
The City of Adelanto Planning Commission in California recently held a heated public hearing to discuss a text-only amendment to the city's Municipal Code, which, if adopted, would permit data centers within the city. Over 100 community members attended the August 19 meeting, expressing strong opposition to the proposal, particularly concerning the potential environmental impact of data centers in the drought-prone Mojave Desert region.
Residents, including Guadelupe Ochoa, voiced concerns about water scarcity and existing municipal water issues, questioning why the city would consider an industry known for high water consumption. An EPA-certified HVAC specialist also challenged the economic benefits, arguing that data centers primarily create temporary jobs and would be regressive for the community. Planning Commission Chair Chris Waggener defended the ordinance, claiming it offered transparency and that data centers would bring their own electricity, minimizing strain on the local grid and residents' bills.
Despite Waggener's arguments, community members remained steadfast in their opposition, frequently interrupting him and demanding the amendment be scrapped. The widespread disapproval ultimately led to a significant outcome: on August 25, the Adelanto Planning Commission voted 3-2 to reject the zoning amendment in an advisory vote. The proposal's final fate now rests with the Adelanto City Council, though no date has been set for their review.