Hayward requests moratorium on data centers
The City of Hayward is considering a moratorium on data centers after public outcry regarding the approval of a STACK data center. Over 60 residents attended a council meeting to support a ban, citing concerns about noise, power grid strain, and water usage. The council expects to vote on the moratorium in late October.
The City of Hayward is actively considering a moratorium on data center development, following significant public opposition. This move comes after the city's Planning Commission approved a 76-megawatt STACK data center on Eden Landing Road in May 2025, which is now under construction.
The proposal for a ban was initiated by a council referral from Mayor Mark Salinas and Councilmembers Angela Andrews and George Syrop. During a September 15 council meeting, City Manager Jennifer Ott indicated that while there are no immediate pending applications, developers have expressed interest in building even larger data centers in Hayward. Councilmember George Syrop emphasized the urgent need for an "urgency moratorium" to prevent further development.
Over 60 residents attended the council meeting, vocally supporting a ban on data centers. Speakers raised concerns about noise pollution, the strain on the local power grid, and the substantial water consumption of data centers, particularly in relation to powering AI. Residents expressed a clear desire to keep such facilities out of Hayward, with one student highlighting potential environmental impacts on future generations.