Coachella extends data center moratorium as city moves toward possible ban

The Coachella City Council has unanimously voted to extend a moratorium on data center development, initially imposed for 45 days, for an additional 10 months and 15 days. The temporary pause on new data center approvals will now run until 2027, allowing city officials to finalize permanent regulations and develop a potential ban on data centers in the area.

This decision comes after significant resident opposition to the proposed Coachella Valley Technology Center campus by Stronghold Power Systems, which planned to build six data centers on approximately 450 acres. The project raised concerns among residents and city officials regarding its potential impact on electrical infrastructure, water demand, public health, and public safety. Earlier, the city council had put Stronghold Power System's plans on hold and terminated an agreement with the company due to its failure to engage residents.

Kendra Reif, Coachella's community development director, stated that the extended moratorium is intended to provide sufficient time to establish a permanent ban ordinance based on optimal land use and development practices. While many residents, including George Cortez, voiced support for the extension and urged swift action towards a permanent ban, not all speakers agreed. Cherie Cabral, representing the California Labor Management Trust, argued that the city should consider the economic benefits of individual projects rather than implementing an outright ban.

The city's Planning Commission is scheduled to review the proposed ban on July 15, with the City Council set to hold first and second readings of the ordinance on August 12 and August 26, respectively.