Imperial School District raises concerns over proposed data center, calls for rigorous environmental review
The Imperial Unified School District has formally raised concerns over a proposed data center within its boundaries, emphasizing student safety and environmental impacts. The district is calling for comprehensive environmental reviews and mitigation strategies regarding air quality, noise, water usage, and traffic. Trustee David Holbrook has recused himself from the district's official stance, citing his role as Imperial County's General Counsel.
The Imperial Unified School District has formally expressed significant concerns regarding a proposed data center development within its jurisdiction. In a letter dated May 14, 2026, the district, under Superintendent Bryan Thomason and its Board of Trustees (Gabby Olguin-Mixon, Daniel Yee, Elvia Hernandez, and Jill Tucker), acknowledged the potential for economic growth but firmly demanded rigorous oversight and evaluation of the project's impacts.
School officials specifically highlighted environmental and operational concerns including air quality, noise levels, water usage, traffic, and construction activity, all of which could affect nearby campuses and residential areas. To address these, the district is advocating for comprehensive environmental reviews, independent assessments, ongoing community engagement, and specific mitigation measures like traffic management and noise reduction. Trustee David Holbrook has recused himself from the district's official position due to his role as Imperial County’s General Counsel, though the specific reason for his recusal was not disclosed. The district has signaled its intent to remain an active stakeholder throughout the local approval process, with no timeline yet announced for the project's next public hearing.