Community resistance and local bans spread across the West
Key Questions
What moratorium did Seattle's city council pass on data centers?
Seattle's city council unanimously passed a one-year AI data center moratorium for projects above a 20 MW threshold. A full council vote is scheduled for June 16.
Why are Hillsboro, Oregon residents opposing data centers?
Residents are demanding a halt to new projects ahead of the June 9 council meeting. Local opposition has intensified due to concerns over resource use.
What water usage issue was identified in The Dalles case study?
Google's data center accounts for 33% of the city's water supply. This has prompted a federal bill to seize forest land for a new dam.
How are Socorro, New Mexico residents responding to the Green Data project?
Residents have submitted a petition with 4,665 signatures opposing the project. The effort reflects broader community pushback against AI data centers.
Which Western cities have enacted bans on hyperscale data centers?
Longmont, Colorado passed a ban with a 100 MW cap, while Monterey Park, CA voters approved a ban with 86% support. Developers are shifting to more welcoming areas as a result.
Local opposition is intensifying in multiple states. Seattle's city council unanimously passed a one-year AI data center moratorium (20 MW threshold, full council vote June 16). Hillsboro, Oregon residents demand a halt ahead of June 9 council meeting. The Dalles case study reveals Google's water use at 33% of city supply, with a federal bill to seize forest land for a dam. In New Mexico, Socorro residents are petitioning against a Green Data project (4,665 signatures). Longmont, Colorado banned hyperscale data centers with a 100 MW cap. Monterey Park, CA voters approved a ban with 86% support. Developers are shifting to welcoming jurisdictions like Vernon or scaling back projects.