Residents singing petitions against the Data Center outside the Monterey Park City Hall on Jan. 21, 2026 (Photo – Melissa Michelson)The Monterey Park City Council will consider several major decisions on the future of data center development when it meets Wednesday, March 4.
By News Desk
The agenda includes a proposed ballot measure that would ban data centers citywide, an extension of the city’s existing moratorium on such projects, and a resolution supporting state legislation aimed at regulating the industry.
The advocacy group No Data Center MPK plans to hold a rally at 5:30 pm outside City Hall ahead of the 6:30 pm council meeting. The group is urging residents to attend, submit written comments, and speak during public comment. According to the group, developer HMC is expected to bring a significant turnout, prompting organizers to call for broad community participation.
No Data Center MPK supports extending the moratorium and backing state‑level regulatory efforts. The group is also asking the City Council to strengthen the proposed ballot measure, arguing that it contains loopholes that could allow certain projects to proceed. According to the group, those concerns include an exemption for parcels under one acre and the lack of an accompanying ordinance that would immediately establish a citywide ban.
The group says a layered approach would provide enforceable protections even if the ballot measure fails. Its proposal calls for removing the under‑one‑acre exemption and ensuring that the ballot language directly amends the Municipal Code and General Plan if approved by voters.
Rally and Meeting
Wednesday, March 4
Rally at 5:30 pm
City Council meeting at 6:30 pm
Location
Monterey Park City Hall
320 W. Newmark Ave.
Monterey Park, CA 91754