DATE: November 12, 2026
TO: Council Sustainability Committee
FROM: Director of Public Works
SUBJECT
Title
Environmental and Economic Impacts of Data Centers
End
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
That the Council Sustainability Committee (CSC) reviews and comments on this report and provides direction to staff.
End
SUMMARY
The attached working white paper (Attachment II) has been prepared in response to a request made by the full City Council on September 15, 2026, when data centers were discussed. In the white paper, staff sought to address the most significant environmental and economic impacts associated with data centers, but there are knowledge gaps. One of the main objectives of this meeting is to solicit feedback from the CSC and the community about the issues they care about most and to identify the topics that require additional study. Staff is also seeking input about a possible monitoring plan as well as input on future community outreach. Upon receiving additional community input and direction from the CSC, staff intends to conduct additional research and return to the CSC and/or the full City Council with more information.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report
Attachment II White Paper
Attachment IIa Summary of State Legislature