Coachella, California Development News

Coachella City Council Extends Data Center Moratorium Amidst Strong Community Opposition

The council considered and approved an extension of the temporary moratorium on data center development. This extension, lasting 10 months and 15 days, is intended to allow staff to finalize permanent regulations prohibiting data centers within the city. The original 45-day moratorium was adopted on June 4th, 2026, due to concerns about electrical infrastructure, water demand, public health, and public safety. During the public hearing, numerous community members voiced strong opposition to data centers and surveillance technologies like flock cameras and drones, citing concerns about environmental impact, increased utility costs, privacy violations, and potential harm to the community. Conversely, a representative from the California Labor Management Trust expressed opposition to a full ban, advocating for individual project evaluations based on their merits and potential economic benefits, while acknowledging the need for regulations. The council voted to extend the moratorium, with the permanent ordinance proceeding through the planning commission and city council review process, with final adoption anticipated by late August. Council members also apologized for the delay in bringing this item forward earlier in the evening, acknowledging the community's wait in the heat.