Why We Took Action on Massive AI Data Centers

Media
Jan 19
2 min read

Earlier this week, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors passed an item I brought forward to address a growing issue that hasn’t gotten nearly enough attention yet — massive artificial intelligence (AI) data centers.

Let me explain why this matters to you.

Across the country, large AI data centers are being built at a rapid pace. These facilities use enormous amounts of electricity and water — often as much as tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of homes.

That kind of demand doesn’t come without consequences.

Without clear rules in place, the cost of powering and supplying these facilities can quietly get passed on to everyday people through higher electric and water bills. Families and small businesses here in Southern California are already struggling with rising costs, and the last thing we should do is ask them to subsidize billion-dollar tech companies.

That’s why I led the effort to pass this item.

The goal is simple: We welcome innovation — but we must protect residents.

This action directs County staff to study the real impacts of large AI data centers and come back with safeguards to ensure:

Utility costs are not shifted onto ratepayers
Infrastructure upgrades are paid for by the projects that require them
Water and energy use are responsibly managed
Communities are protected before projects are approved

We learned a hard lesson with past projects that moved forward without proper rules in place. Waiting until after the fact only leaves residents paying the price.

This isn’t about stopping technology or economic growth. It’s about making sure innovation moves forward responsibly — without hurting families, seniors, or small businesses who are already stretched thin.

San Diegans should not be left holding the bill for corporate expansion. And as long as I’m on the Board, I’ll continue fighting to make sure your interests come first.

Thank you for staying engaged and paying attention to what’s happening at the County — it truly makes a difference.