San Jose Spotlight: San Jose Residents Push For Data Center Moratorium
Residents in San Jose, California, are advocating for an immediate moratorium on new data center developments amidst concerns about overwhelming local water and power infrastructure. The city is currently drafting new review standards for data center projects, expected to address environmental impacts, but critics worry that some projects may advance before these safeguards are implemented. The issue was discussed at a Rules and Open Government Committee meeting, where residents pressed for an emergency development halt.
San Jose, California, is facing calls from residents and environmental groups, including Green Foothills, for an immediate moratorium on new data center construction. These demands arise as the city works to establish new local review standards for such projects, which are intended to address concerns about potential strains on water and power infrastructure, as well as environmental harms like air quality, noise pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Critics, such as Alice Kaufman of Green Foothills, argue that without an immediate halt, developers might rush to submit applications to be grandfathered in before stricter standards, expected to go before the City Council in December, take effect. They point to other jurisdictions like New York state and Oakley, California, that have enacted moratoriums. Community advocate Mark Espinoza from Alviso also emphasized the need for careful study and community input.
City officials, including those from the City Manager's Office and Councilmember David Cohen, contend that the lengthy permit approval process makes it unlikely for new applications to bypass future standards and that a moratorium could disrupt economic growth. Mayor Matt Mahan supports well-regulated development, emphasizing the need for responsible growth without deterring the industry. The city plans community listening sessions to gather feedback on the proposed standards, which may include requirements for community benefits like funding for public space, affordable housing, or clean energy programs.
The Data Center Coalition, an industry trade group, also voiced opposition to a moratorium, suggesting that such measures discourage investment. Despite the ongoing debate, city officials are focused on maximizing the number of projects that will be subject to the new standards once they are finalized.