Study Session September 8, 2026

The City of Moreno Valley held a study session on September 8, 2026, focused on the topic of data centers. The session included a detailed presentation by the Public Works Director on the scale, infrastructure demands, and community impacts of data centers, emphasizing the need for proactive policy and planning before any projects are proposed. The city currently has no data center projects under development, and data centers are not a permitted use under the existing zoning code, requiring potential applicants to seek general plan amendments and zone changes. Public comments overwhelmingly expressed concern about the environmental, water, energy, noise, and health impacts of data centers, with many residents urging the city council to enact a moratorium or outright ban on data centers to protect local resources and quality of life. Council members indicated consensus to direct staff to return with formal agenda items for further consideration, though no formal votes or motions were taken during this study session.