Poway council votes to ban artificial intelligence data centers

The city of Poway has taken the first step toward banning artificial intelligence data centers.

On Sept. 15, city council members voted to prohibit third-party artificial intelligence companies from building standalone data centers citywide, citing the significant demands for water and energy resources. also expressed concern that data centers, which typically require relatively few employees, could occupy land that might otherwise attract businesses that create jobs and generate revenue.

Mayor Steve Vaus and Councilmember Michelle Edmondson sponsored the ordinance, citing concerns that Poway and South Poway Business Park’s remaining land should be reserved for industrial, manufacturing, and office uses that spur employment and generate revenue for the city.

During council comment, Mayor Vaus and Edmondson stressed the decision was not meant to prevent new technology from entering the city but was strictly an environmental and land use decision.

“This is a land use decision, not an anti-technology decision,” Mayor Steve Vaus said. “We’re not banning AI, and we’re not telling Poway businesses what technology they can use.”

Added Councilmember Edmondson, “The limited land we have in the business park, the economic and employment engine of Poway, must be prioritized for businesses that bring significant and sustained employment and economic growth to Poway.”

Others on the council agreed.

Councilmember Dave Grosch said a large data center could occupy 11 or 12 acres that otherwise might accommodate numerous smaller employers. He said the business park should remain available to a wide range of businesses rather than becoming “a mausoleum for data storage.”

Deputy Mayor Jenny Maeda questioned whether a permanent ban was warranted at this stage and suggested the city consider a five-year moratorium instead. Her motion failed to gain any support.

The council voted 5-0 to introduce the ordinance and waive further reading. Final adoption is set for Oct. 6.