In recent weeks the cities of Calipatria, Brawley, and Imperial have taken the necessary steps to protect their residents from rapid AI data center development. Therefore, we need to also urge the Board of Supervisors to take similar steps to protect unincorporated Imperial County.

On April 7, 2026, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved, by a 4–1 vote, a lot merger for the 330 MW Imperial Data Center. This decision marked the only discretionary step under the Board’s authority in the approval process, enabling the project to proceed.

This should worry all residents in Imperial County. Current zoning regulations allow data centers to be approved "by-right" in Light Industrial (M-1) and Medium Industrial (M-2) zones—without requiring environmental review under CEQA. This is in addition to many County-approved Specific Plans that will also allow for data centers (Mesquite Lake and Rancho Los Lagos.)

Without immediate action, this loophole opens the door for rapid and unchecked data center development near residential neighborhoods, placing communities at risk of becoming de facto industrial zones. The absence of CEQA review means potential impacts—such as noise, energy demand, water use, and proximity to homes—may not be fully evaluated or mitigated.

A temporary 12 month moratorium is essential to give the County time to update its zoning ordinances, specific plans, and ensure that data centers are properly classified as Heavy Industrial uses or ban entirely. This would help prevent incompatible land use, protect residents living near M-1 and M-2 zones, and ensure future development is planned responsibly rather than allowed to expand unchecked into urban overlay areas.

Taking action now will help safeguard community health, preserve quality of life, and ensure that growth in Imperial County is both transparent and sustainable.