Imperial County supervisors clear path for massive data center complex amid fierce opposition
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved a lot merger for a 1 million square foot data center complex, despite fierce opposition from residents and the forceful removal of protestors. Opponents vow to continue fighting the project, which still requires water and power agreements, and the City of Imperial is currently suing the county over environmental concerns.
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted 4 to 1 to approve a lot merger for a massive 1 million square foot data center complex, a decision county officials described as their only discretionary step for the project to proceed. The meeting saw tight security, with armed sheriff's deputies forcibly removing at least three protestors who opposed the development.
Despite the approval, Supervisor John Hawk noted that the developer still faces significant hurdles, including securing water and power agreements. Christopher Scuris, a leader of the opposition group NIMBY Imperial, stated that opponents will continue their fight, including launching a recall effort against at least one supervisor and aiming to vote others out in upcoming elections.
Further complicating the project, the City of Imperial has filed a lawsuit against the county. The lawsuit argues that a stronger environmental analysis is needed for the data center development.