Imperial County supervisors clear path for massive data center complex amid fierce opposition

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to approve a crucial lot merger for a $10 billion data center complex proposed by Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing (IVCM). This decision, made during a tense public hearing on April 7, 2026, which saw protesters removed by sheriff’s deputies, clears a significant hurdle for the project in the heart of Imperial County, bordering the city of Imperial. The project faces fierce opposition from a group called Not in My Backyard Imperial, who cite environmental concerns like dust emissions and air pollution. Critics also question the project's design to bypass a lengthy environmental analysis under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). IVCM CEO Sebastian Rucci expressed satisfaction with the board's decision but acknowledged that the company still needs to secure energy and water agreements, primarily from the Imperial Irrigation District. Supervisors, including Jesus Eduardo Escobar who questioned environmental impacts and County Chair Peggy Price who reported threats, raised concerns during the meeting. Supervisor Martha Cardenas-Singh was the lone dissenting vote. Opposition leaders, including Christopher Scurries, plan to continue their fight against the project, potentially launching a recall effort against Supervisor Price.