California city bans data center construction as opposition grows nationwide
The city of Monterey Park, California, has reportedly voted to enact a permanent ban on data center construction within its limits. This decision follows a proposal for a 247,000-square-foot data center and reflects growing nationwide public opposition to data center development.
The California city of Monterey Park has reportedly voted to permanently prohibit the construction of data centers within its jurisdiction. Exit polls indicate that 86% of voters supported the ban, which was prompted by a proposal for a 247,000-square-foot data center installation.
This action by Monterey Park is believed to be the first of its kind, as other legislatures have implemented temporary pauses or bans. The move highlights increasing public opposition to the buildout of AI infrastructure across the United States. A recent poll found that 71% of US voters oppose a data center being built near their homes, a significant increase from 42% nine months prior. This growing sentiment is also linked to broader anti-AI feelings, particularly among young people who are concerned about AI's impact on the labor market.