Imperial school officials concerned about data centers impacting community

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) - School officials in Imperial are ringing the alarm on the proposed data center in town, a project they say will have lasting negative impacts on the community.

In a region already battling water concerns, severe drought and air pollution, school officials in Imperial are standing with residents and pushing back against the data center.

During a school board meeting, board members publicly read a letter opposing the proposed center.

Parents and residents voiced their concerns about how close the project will be to schools and homes, pointing out the potential health risks and noise pollution.

One board member recused himself from signing the letter.

"We want to focus on the fact that this is an accomplishment and you know of course we're celebrating this as a small win and acknowledging that there are some real concerns that are attached to this project that they, too feel the need to have some light put on it," said Gina Snow, an Imperial resident.

It's clear that this fight is far from over, as the city continues to rally support ahead of future decisions on the proposed data center.