MONTEREY PARK, CA – Over 300 community members packed Monterey Park City Hall on January 21st to voice opposition to a proposed 250,000 square foot data center at 1977 Saturn Ave. Nearly 100 speakers made public comments, the majority of whom expressed concerns over environmental and health impacts, including energy usage, noise pollution, and air quality . Many speakers also called for a city-wide ban on data centers.
“The evidence is clear. Data centers should not be built in neighborhoods like Monterey Park. The children who grow up here, the families who set down roots, the elderly neighbors who tend to their gardens, and the small businesses that keep our economy running – they all deserve better,” said Hrag Balian, co-founder of No Data Center MPK, a group of anti-data center residents.
Many residents expressed outrage over the lack of public engagement from the City and the developer. Some speakers shared that they only learned of the project through social media posts.
“SGV Progressive Action created multiple informational social media posts, which were viewed more than 400,000 times,” said Amy Wong, SGV Progressive Action co-founder. “Our organization got involved after multiple Monterey Park residents requested help in amplifying their concerns. In response, we helped coordinate a multifaceted community outreach effort that included digital engagement, neighborhood canvassing, and a community teach-in to ensure residents had access to clear, timely information.”
These efforts culminated in a rally attended by more than 300 community members immediately prior to the City Council meeting.
After over five hours of public comment, the City Council unanimously voted to proceed with a 45-day moratorium on all data centers. They also directed staff to prepare a report on a potential permanent moratorium on data centers across Monterey Park.
No Data Center MPK circulated a petition to oppose the data center, which garnered over 3,700 signatures. Residents have also created a website to educate the community about the project. （No Data Center MPK）
