Good morning. My name is Daniela Vega, and I am a senior organizer with the ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties and a resident of Brawley. I am here today in strong support of the temporary data center moratorium. Imperial Valley families, residents and workers depend on our land, water and energy to live their lives and do their jobs. Decisions about how these resources are used will have long-term consequences on our communities. Data center developments in Imperial Valley raise significant questions about the long-term effects in the region. The community deserves answers regarding water use, energy demand, and the impacts to our infrastructure and environment. This process warrants careful consideration, independent analysis and transparent public processes with meaningful community input.
The County of Imperial established the Data Center Advisory Committee to examine land-use and zoning regulations and make recommendations to this board on the economic and environmental impacts of data centers in our communities. The committee must be given adequate time to thoroughly research and then present their conclusions, particularly as the county considers how data centers fit within its broader Lithium Valley planning.
We urge the board to approve this temporary moratorium and use this period to complete the proper environmental, infrastructure, water and energy analyses. The board should also develop clear and enforceable land-use standards for data centers, incorporate recommendations from the Data Center Advisory Committee, and provide ample opportunities for residents to participate in these decisions. We appreciate the board bringing this ordinance back and celebrate Imperial Valley residents for organizing around this issue.
Thank you for your time.
