Brawley, California, to amend zoning ordinance for data centers
Brawley City Council voted to amend its zoning ordinance to regulate large-scale data centers and supporting infrastructure. This action aims to establish specific zones and require Conditional Use Permits for data centers, replacing earlier consideration of a moratorium. The city seeks clear regulations to prevent future litigation, noting the current ordinance doesn't mention data centers.
The Brawley City Council convened, initially recognizing Brawley Police Department officers Sergeant David Pham, Officer Jacob Carillo, Officer Joe Godinez III, and Officer Vanessa Yanez Fuentes for their bravery during a recent structure fire. Police Chief Jon Blackstone commended their courageous and selfless actions.
During regular business, the council unanimously voted to direct city staff to prepare amendments to the city's zoning ordinance specifically targeting large-scale data centers and related supporting infrastructure. City Attorney William Smerdon clarified that this move follows an earlier directive to remove moratorium wording from the ordinance and is necessary because the existing zoning regulations do not currently address data centers. Smerdon noted that Brawley already hosts two smaller data centers, operated by Spectrum and AT&T, but the new ordinance will define specific zones for large-scale data centers and mandate Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) rather than allowing them by right. The process will include public notices and hearings, aiming to establish clear guidelines and prevent future litigation, even though no new projects are currently proposed.