Council directs staff to draft rules for high‑intensity data centers after robust public opposition

Council members opened a formal discussion on regulating industries that consume substantial water and energy—an item framed broadly to include data centers. Planning Director Vanessa Guerra gave an introductory presentation explaining what data centers are, the difference between traditional and high‑intensity (AI) facilities and potential impacts on water, electricity and land use. She defined a data center as "a facility that houses compute computer servers and supporting infrastructure to store, process, manage, and transmit digital information." The staff presentation reviewed cooling technologies, water‑use considerations and possible ordinance components such as zoning, noise, buffering, utility impact assessments and compliance with NFPA 75 for fire protection.

Public comment was extensive and repeatedly urged a moratorium or permanent ban. Karen Munoz, a District 8 resident, told the council: "I support item 65, but would also ask that instead of a temporary moratorium, you pass an outright ban on data center development." Council members debated options: whether to continue discussion in open session or consult the city attorney in executive session about moratorium legalities. After debate the council voted to go to executive session for attorney consultation and then, on return to regular session, directed the city manager to develop a comprehensive regulatory framework with the city attorney's guidance. Staff also signaled plans for follow‑up workshops, further public engagement and technical studies (hydraulic, utility and land‑use impact assessments) before drafting ordinances.