Los Angeles County Advances Report on Data Center Impacts in Unincorporated Communities

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors today approved a motion by Board Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis to assess the health, environmental, and community impacts of data center development across the County.   

As hyperscale data centers expand nationwide, Los Angeles County and other local jurisdictions are grappling with how to regulate and oversee these facilities amid limited federal guidance on safeguarding public health, environmental quality, and community wellbeing.   In California, there are several bills that have been recently introduced to regulate aspects of data centers, including Senate Bill 978 by California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez. As these discussions continue at the state level, the motion led by Chair Solis is a timely response to ensure the County addresses this advancing technology. 

“I have heard significant concerns from residents across the San Gabriel Valley as cities consider advancing hyperscale data center projects,” said Board Chair Solis. “While the County does not have direct jurisdiction over developments within city boundaries, we have deep expertise across departments that can help establish best practices in unincorporated areas. Absent sufficient support for a full moratorium, the Board unanimously approved a study that will provide recommendations for next steps. Today’s motion does not limit the County from taking any future actions found to be within our purview once the report is released. I am committed to robust public outreach to ensure community voices are heard and reflected. Today is a meaningful step toward elevating San Gabriel Valley residents’ concerns while protecting the wellbeing of our communities.” 

The motion approved today directs County departments, including Public Health, Regional Planning, Public Works, Fire, and the Chief Sustainability Office, to evaluate potential risks, conduct culturally competent community outreach, and engage residents, labor partners, community-based organizations, and subject matter experts.  

It also calls for the development of best practices and recommendations for future action, including potential community benefits related to energy rates, water use, public health, and environmental impacts, while prioritizing local workers for well-paying jobs. The effort aims to establish a framework that can guide cities across the County as they address similar issues related to data centers. In addition, the motion directs the County’s Office of Legislative Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations (CEO-LAIR) to advocate in support of SB 978 (Pérez) and similar legislation.