Data Center (File Photo – freeimage)
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 14, approved a motion introduced by Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis to evaluate the health, environmental, and community impacts of data center development across the county.
By News Desk
The action comes as hyperscale data centers continue to expand nationwide, prompting local governments to consider how best to regulate and oversee such facilities. Officials note that federal guidance on protecting public health, environmental quality, and community wellbeing remains limited, leaving counties and cities to navigate the issue independently.
In California, lawmakers have begun addressing data center regulation. Among the proposals is Senate Bill 978, introduced by State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez. County leaders say the newly approved motion aligns with ongoing state-level discussions and represents a timely local response to a rapidly advancing industry.
Solis said her office has received significant concerns from residents in the San Gabriel Valley, where cities are considering large-scale data center projects. While the county does not have direct authority over developments within incorporated cities, she emphasized that county departments can help establish best practices, particularly in unincorporated areas.
The Board unanimously approved a study after determining there was insufficient support for a full moratorium on data center development. According to Solis, the study will provide recommendations for potential next steps, and the county retains the ability to take further action once the report is completed.
Under the motion, multiple county departments, including Public Health, Regional Planning, Public Works, Fire, and the Chief Sustainability Office, will assess potential risks and conduct outreach efforts. The process will include engagement with residents, labor groups, community-based organizations, and subject matter experts, with an emphasis on culturally competent communication.
The initiative also calls for developing best practices and policy recommendations addressing issues such as energy use, water consumption, environmental effects, and public health. Officials said the effort will also explore opportunities for community benefits, including workforce development and prioritizing local hiring for well-paying jobs.
In addition, the motion directs the county’s Office of Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations to support SB 978 and similar legislation at the state level.
County leaders say the study aims to create a framework that could help guide cities across Los Angeles County as they confront the challenges and opportunities associated with data center growth.
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