Pittsburg Agrees to 45-Day Moratorium on Data Centers
The Pittsburg City Council voted 4-0 to impose an immediate 45-day moratorium on new or expanded data centers. The pause excludes AVAIO Digital’s already-entitled Phase 1 project and will allow the city to study data center impacts, including energy, water and environmental concerns; the moratorium could be extended for up to two years.
The Pittsburg City Council approved an immediate, citywide 45-day moratorium on new or expanded data centers in a 4-0 vote, with Mayor Dionne Adams recusing herself. The moratorium is the maximum initial period allowed and could be extended twice, potentially lasting up to two years with the required supermajority vote.
The pause does not apply to AVAIO Digital’s Phase 1 data center, whose entitlements were approved in 2024. Community and Economic Development Director Jordan Davis said the city has no pending applications for other new or expanded data centers, though potential projects could represent substantially greater energy demand than AVAIO’s facility. Councilmember Jelani Killings said the city is responding to public concerns while continuing negotiations and a transparent review process involving the developer and a community advisory committee. The city also plans to address gaps in its code related to energy, water consumption and environmental protection before state requirements take effect in 2027.