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Residents press El Centro council to require environmental review after proposed data center claims about water
Summary
Two residents urged the city to require CEQA environmental review and to clarify water rights for a proposed data center in nearby Imperial, saying no city agreement exists for reclaimed wastewater and that any discharge to the Central Main Canal would need permits and approvals.
Two residents used the public-comment period to press the El Centro City Council to clarify the status of water access and environmental review for a proposed large data center in nearby Imperial.
Michelle (recorded as Michelle Hollinger), speaking on behalf of Victoria Homes and residents in Victoria Ranch, said the proposed data center would be 116 feet from homeowners and asked El Centro to adopt a resolution to protect the city and require CEQA and an environmental impact report (EIR) before any project proceeds. She asked to be notified of developer actions that could affect residents and left business cards with staff for follow-up.
Jake Tyson, who identified himself as born and raised in El Centro, said public statements by project proponents that water would be supplied from the city wastewater treatment plant were premature. According to Tyson, the city has "no agreement of any kind" with any data center developer, has not approved water use or reclaimed wastewater, and has only received a request for a "will serve" letter — which he said is not a contract or guarantee of water. Tyson cautioned that treating and discharging excess water into the Central Main Canal would require separate permits and agency approvals and noted that the issue has become the subject of litigation in Imperial.
City staff earlier in the meeting had clarified that the city had not received an application or made commitments for a proposed AI data center; staff recommended public engagement and indicated that future considerations would require formal studies and environmental review.
Councilmembers and staff also noted a county-sponsored town-hall meeting about data centers scheduled for Wednesday the 14th to provide more information and a question-and-answer period.
No formal council action on the data center was recorded at the meeting; public commenters asked for resolutions or notifications if developers take action.
