Data Centers Become Election Focus in LA County

The wave of opposition to data centers and battery energy storage systems has become an unexpected focus of the November election in Los Angeles County. From Alhambra to Monterey Park, the issue has evolved from community grassroots protests to ballot measures and core campaign platforms for city council and school board candidates.

In June, Monterey Park voters passed a pioneering ballot measure that blocked a data center project proposed by developer HMC StratCap, setting a precedent for neighboring cities. In July, the Alhambra City Council voted to put Measure DB on the November ballot, which would upgrade an existing administrative ban to a permanent voter-approved ban, prohibiting changes without a vote.