El Segundo, California officials extend moratorium on data centers
The El Segundo City Council extended the city’s moratorium on data centers until September of next year. Opposition is also being expressed by the Wiseburn Unified School District, citing potential air pollution, water and energy use, and impacts on nearby schools and residents.
The El Segundo City Council extended its moratorium on data center development through September of the following year, giving opponents additional time to challenge proposed projects. The Wiseburn Unified School District’s governing board had separately voted to oppose data center construction near school facilities, with board member Rebecca Hamburg Cappy citing student health and safety concerns.
Residents and policymakers raised concerns about data centers’ consumption of water and electricity, potential effects on utility bills, and pollution from gas-powered facilities. A developer withdrew an application for a proposed five-story data center after a contentious planning committee meeting in July. Advocates, including Local Progress program manager Kathleen Pointer, pointed to research linking pollution near data centers with respiratory and cardiovascular risks.