Riverside City Council to Consider 45-Day Data Center Moratorium
Riverside City Council is expected to consider a 45-day moratorium on new data centers on Nov. 10. If the moratorium does not advance, the council may consider a resolution stating that existing zoning already blocks data center permits, amid concerns about electricity and water use and higher utility bills.
Riverside’s Land Use Committee voted to send two data center-related options to the full City Council: a proposed 45-day moratorium on new facilities or a resolution affirming that existing zoning already prevents them from receiving permits. The council is scheduled to discuss the proposals and hold a public hearing on Nov. 10.
Councilmember Sean Mill cited Riverside’s limited connection to the statewide electricity grid and potential impacts on water supplies and utility bills. City Planner Laurel Reimer said no data center application has been filed, while committee chair Clarissa Cervantes warned that developers could target Riverside if nearby cities adopt restrictions.