Agencies take action after outcry against data center construction
The Tulare County Board of Supervisors enacted a 45-day moratorium on data center construction to evaluate environmental and social impacts, while the Hanford City Council declined to change zoning regulations, effectively maintaining a ban on data centers within city limits. These actions follow widespread opposition to data center plans across the region, driven by concerns over resource consumption, noise, and utility costs.
In response to significant public opposition, the Tulare County Board of Supervisors and the Hanford City Council have taken measures to halt or restrict data center construction in their jurisdictions. The Tulare County supervisors voted 4-1 to implement a 45-day moratorium on new data center developments, which can be extended for up to two years. Michael Washam, associate director of the county’s Resource Management Agency, stated that current zoning ordinances are outdated and inadequate to address the unique operational characteristics and resource demands of data centers, including substantial electrical capacity and water for cooling.
Separately, the Hanford City Council rejected a proposal to modify local zoning regulations that currently prohibit data centers within city limits. Assistant City Manager Jason Waters confirmed that this decision effectively maintains a ban on data center construction in Hanford. Residents like Faith Ortiz from Porterville and Mariela Loera, a policy advocate for the Leadership Council for Justice and Accountability, voiced strong concerns during public meetings, highlighting potential negative impacts such as increased utility prices, water scarcity, noise pollution, and disproportionate effects on low-income communities in the San Joaquin Valley.
While Tulare County aims to establish appropriate regulations before projects are submitted, Vice Chair Dennis Townsend dissented on the moratorium, advocating for a case-by-case review instead of a blanket ban. Both agencies' actions underscore a broader regional debate over the suitability and impact of data center developments.