Concerns Resurface in District 5, But City Staff Say Proposed New York Drive Project Is Not a Data Center

Pasadena Councilmember Gene Masuda recently questioned city staff about a proposed development on New York Drive in his district, which had generated significant public discussion as a potential data center. Deputy Planning Director Jason Mikaelian, however, informed the Legislative Policy Committee that after evaluation with the Economic Development Department, the project was determined to be for research and development and office use, not meeting the city's definition of a data center. The discussion took place amidst a broader context of local concern over data center proliferation, with Committee Chair Steve Madison citing issues of grid reliability and the prudent use of local real estate. City planning staff had previously presented on data centers to the Housing, Homelessness and Planning Committee, and the Municipal Services Committee had examined utility consumption aspects, indicating coordinated city-wide attention to the issue. Simultaneously, the committee received updates on state and federal legislative efforts. Sacramento lobbyist Kyra Emmanuels Ross reported on roughly nine data center bills moving through the California Legislature, focusing on regulation. Washington advocate Chris Giglio also noted a federal executive order by President Trump on artificial intelligence that seeks to preempt state and local regulation, which could extend to local zoning authority over data centers. Giglio expressed doubt about Congress's ability to act on this proposal but emphasized its future importance. A public commenter, Yadi, urged the city to support state bills on data center oversight and advocated for a formal civic body to give residents a voice on technology and AI issues. The Legislative Policy Committee, including Vice Mayor Jess Rivas, took no formal action on data centers but confirmed it would continue to monitor ongoing state and federal developments.