Imperial County residents voiced strong opposition to a proposed 950,000-square-foot data center during a packed meeting of the Board of Supervisors on Thursday, raising concerns about potential environmental and health impacts and questioning the county’s decision to grant the project an exemption from a full state environmental review. The proposed facility, planned by Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, is intended to support advanced artificial intelligence operations and has become a focal point of debate in the rural county, highlighting a growing tension between economic development and community well-being.
The meeting, which overflowed into the parking lot, underscored the depth of feeling surrounding the project. Speakers criticized the Board for what they perceived as a rush to approve the data center without adequately addressing community concerns. The core of the dispute centers on the county’s granting of an exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), a landmark law designed to assess the environmental consequences of major developments.
“This project does not exist in isolation; it impacts real neighborhoods, families and schools and is also setting a precedent for how you treat your constituents,” said Gina Snow, a resident living near the proposed site. “If the full scope of this project cannot be clearly presented and independently verified, then residents are essentially being asked to make decisions without information they deserve.”
Growing Opposition and Calls for Transparency
Residents have organized a multifaceted campaign against the data center in recent months. A petition has garnered thousands of signatures, protests have been held on the streets, and a community organization, Not in My Backyard Imperial, has formed to advocate for a comprehensive CEQA review. Kristian Salgado, speaking at the meeting, urged the Board to consider the example of Monterey Park, which recently enacted a moratorium on data center development and will put the issue to a public vote following similar community backlash.
“Across the United States, communities are pushing back against these projects,” Salgado stated. “This developer is not an exception — no data center should be approved by right.”
Economic Promises vs. Environmental Concerns
Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, a company established two years ago, argues the data center will bring significant economic benefits to the economically challenged Imperial County. The company projects the facility will generate $28.75 million in annual property tax revenue and create jobs. But, residents remain skeptical, particularly given the lack of transparency surrounding the project’s conclude-user. Sebastian Rucci, the company’s chief executive, has stated the data center will be used by one of the major artificial intelligence “hyperscalers,” but has declined to name the company, citing ongoing legal disputes.
Rucci has maintained that the project will minimize environmental harm through the use of reclaimed wastewater and EPA-certified natural gas generators. He has also commissioned studies, available on the company’s website, which he claims demonstrate minimal impact on the local community. However, residents have questioned the independence and thoroughness of these studies.
The debate also highlights broader concerns about the environmental impact of the rapidly expanding data center industry, fueled by the growth of artificial intelligence. Cornell University researchers estimated last year that AI growth could increase carbon dioxide emissions by 24 to 44 million metric tons annually by 2030, equivalent to adding 5 to 10 million cars to U.S. Roadways, and consume vast amounts of water – between 731 million and 1,125 million cubic meters per year.
Legal Battles and County Divisions
The controversy has escalated into legal action. The city of Imperial has filed a lawsuit against the county, arguing that the CEQA exemption granted to the project was improper. In response, Sebastian Rucci and Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing are suing the city of Imperial, alleging unfair obstruction of the data center development.
Sergio Pesqueria, speaking at the Board of Supervisors meeting, expressed frustration with the county’s handling of the situation. “What the heck are we doing?” he asked. “We find lawsuits, there are thousands of signatures in opposition to this project, there were over four hours of public comment to the planning commission previously, we had to extend an hour tonight because of the overwhelming opposition — but here we are proceeding with this project.”
While many residents voiced opposition, some spoke in favor of the project, emphasizing the potential for job creation. Jose Garcia urged the board to consider the needs of construction workers struggling to find employment. “We can’t just block out one sector of your constituents,” he said. “We have to make it fair for everybody.”
Looking Ahead
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors is expected to continue reviewing the proposal in the coming weeks. The next scheduled meeting to discuss the data center is currently set for February 27th, where the board will consider further public comment and potentially vote on final approval. The outcome of the legal challenges brought by the city of Imperial and Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing will also play a significant role in determining the project’s future. Residents remain committed to advocating for a thorough environmental review and greater transparency throughout the decision-making process.
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