Delano Council Seeks More Information on Proposed Data Center Moratorium
The Delano City Council voted to bring more information about a proposed temporary moratorium on new data center development to its next meeting. Mayor Salvador Solorio-Ruiz cited concerns about water use, energy infrastructure, land use, air quality and the adequacy of the city’s current zoning rules, while some council members questioned the need for restrictions without a specific project proposal.
The Delano City Council advanced consideration of a proposed temporary moratorium on data centers by approving a motion to review additional information at its next meeting. Mayor Salvador Solorio-Ruiz proposed the pause, saying the city should examine potential effects on water resources, electricity infrastructure, land use, air quality and public health before a project is proposed.
City Attorney Mark Hensley said the moratorium could initially last 45 days and potentially be extended. Solorio-Ruiz also said Delano’s existing planning code does not specifically identify data centers as a land use, potentially allowing a future facility to receive administrative approval without review by the Planning Commission or City Council. Some council members, including Councilmember Alindajao, opposed moving forward without details of a specific project, but the council approved continued consideration.