Monterey Park Approves Immediate Ban on Data Center Development

Monterey Park City Hall (Photo – montereypark.ca.gov)

The Monterey Park City Council voted unanimously on April 20, 2026, to adopt three ordinances prohibiting data center development citywide, with the measures taking effect immediately. According to city officials, the action establishes a permanent ban and marks the first such policy adopted by a municipality in California.

By News Desk

City leaders said the ordinances respond to concerns about the potential impacts of data centers on local communities. Issues cited during discussions included noise levels, air quality, pollution, water usage, and possible effects on nearby property values.

The decision follows months of community engagement and organizing by residents. Local advocacy efforts intensified after it became publicly known that a development proposal by HMC StratCap had been underway for more than two years before broader community awareness. The developer later withdrew its application.

During the April 20 council meeting, residents and community representatives addressed the council, expressing support for the prohibition. Organizers described the outcome as a reflection of sustained public participation in the decision-making process.

City officials indicated that the policy may draw attention from other municipalities facing similar proposals, particularly in the San Gabriel Valley and across Southern California.

In a related move, the council agreed to study battery energy storage systems (BESS), citing overlapping land use, environmental, and safety considerations.

Voters in Monterey Park are also scheduled to consider Measure NDC on June 2. The measure would require any future reversal of the data center ban to be approved by voters.