City Council Chamber
1515 6th Street, Coachella, California
(760) 398-3502 www.coachella.org
AGENDA
OFA REGULAR MEETING
OF THE
CITY OF COACHELLA
PLANNING COMMISSION
July 15, 2026
6:00 PM
In-Person Meeting
Location:
City Council Chamber
1515 6th Street,
Coachella, CA
If you would like to attend the meeting via Zoom, here is the link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84544257915?pwd=VTdHWitpYVdOUk1NQW8vZ1pqUm0zQT 09 Or One tap mobile : +16694449171,,84544257915#,,,,*380084# Or Telephone:
US: +1 669 900 6833
Webinar ID: 845 4425 7915
Passcode: 380084
Spanish: El idioma español está disponible en Zoom seleccionado la opción en la parte de abajo de la pantalla
Public comments may be received either in person, via email, telephonically, or via Zoom with a limit of 250 words, or three minutes:
o In Real Time:
If participating in real time via Zoom or phone, during the Public Comment Period, use the “raise hand” function on your computer, or when using a phone, participants can raise their hand by pressing *9 on the keypad.
o In Writing:
Written comments may be submitted to the Planning Commission electronically via email to [email protected]. Transmittal prior to the start of the meeting is required. All written comments received will be forwarded to the Planning Commission and entered into the record. o If you wish, you may leave a message at (760) 398-3102 Ext. 122 before 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. The live stream of the meeting may be viewed online by accessing the city's website at www.coachella.org, and clicking on the "Watch Council Meetings" tab located on the home page, and then clicking on the "live" button.
1 CALL TO ORDER:
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
ROLL CALL:
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
“At this time the Commission may announce any items being pulled from the agenda or continued to another date or request the moving of an item on the agenda.”
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
1. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – July 1, 2026
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS:
PUBLIC COMMENTS (NON-AGENDA ITEMS):
“The public may address the Commission on any item of interest to the public that is not on the agenda, but is within the subject matter jurisdiction thereof. Please limit your comments to three (3) minutes.” REPORTS AND REQUESTS:
NON-HEARING ITEMS:
PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR (QUASI-JUDICIAL):
2. Resolution No. PC 2026-23 Recommending that City Council Adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to Prohibit Data Centers Uses Within the City of Coachella INFORMATIONAL:
ADJOURNMENT:
THIS MEETING IS ACCESSIBLE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES Complete Agenda Packets are available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office at 53-462 Enterprise Way, Coachella, California, and on the City’s website www.coachella.org.
2 City Council Chamber
1515 6
th Street, Coachella,
(760) 398-3502
www.coachella.org
AGENDA
DE UNA REUNIÓN DE LA
COMISIÓN DE PLANIFICACIÓN
PLANNING COMMISSION
15 de Julio de 2026
6:00 PM
Lugar de la reunión en
persona:
Cámara del
Ayuntamiento
1515 6th Street,
Coachella, CA
Si desea asistir a la reunión a través de Zoom, aquí está el enlace:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84544257915?pwd=VTdHWitpYVdOUk1NQW8vZ1pqUm0z QT09
O one tap mobile: Us: +16699006833,, 84544257915#,,,,* 380084# US O teléfono:
Us: +1 669 900 6833
ID del webinar: 845 4425 7915
Código de acceso: 380084
Español: El idioma español está disponible en Zoom seleccionado la opción en la parte de abajo de la pantalla
Los comentarios públicos se pueden recibir por correo electrónico, por teléfono o por zoom con un límite de 250 palabras o tres minutos:
o En vivo:
Si participa en vivo a través de zoom o teléfono, durante el período de comentarios públicos, use la función "levantar la mano" en su computadora, o cuando use un teléfono, los participantes pueden levantar la mano presionando *9 en el teclado.
o Por escrito:
Los comentarios escritos pueden enviarse a la comisión electrónicamente por correo electrónico a [email protected]. Se requiere la transmisión antes del inicio de la reunión. Todos los comentarios escritos recibidos serán enviados a la comisión e ingresados en el registro. o Si Lo Desea, puede dejar un mensaje en el (760) 398-3102, extensión 122, antes de las 4:00 p.m. del día de la reunió.
La transmisión en vivo de la reunión podrá verse en línea accediendo al sitio web de la Ciudad en www.coachella.org, haciendo clic en la pestaña “Watch Council Meetings” ubicada en la página principal y, posteriormente, haciendo clic en el botón “Live”. 3
LLAMADO AL ORDEN:
JURAMENTO A LA BANDERA:
PASE DE LISTA:
APROBACIÓN DE LA
AGENDA:
“En este momento, la Comisión puede anunciar cualquier punto que está siendo retirado de la agenda o continuado a otra fecha o solicitar el traslado de un punto de la agenda”.
APROBACION DE LAS ACTAS:
1. Minutos de la Comisión de Planificación – 1 de Julio de 2026.
COMUNICACIONES ESCRITAS:
COMENTARIOS DEL PÚBLICO (PUNTOS QUE NO ESTÁN EN LA AGENDA):
“El público puede dirigirse a la Comisión sobre cualquier tema de interés para el público que no esté en la agenda, pero que esté dentro de la jurisdicción de la materia de la misma. Por favor limite sus comentarios a tres (3) minutos”.
INFORMES Y SOLICITUDES:
SESIÓN DE ESTUDIO
PUNTOS QUE NO SON DE AUDIENCIA:
CALENDARIO DE AUDIENCIAS PÚBLICAS (CUASI-JUDICIAL):
2. Resolución No. PC 2026-23 Recomendando que el Concejo Municipal Adopte una Ordenanza que Agregue el Capítulo 17.92 al Título XVII del Código Municipal de Coachella para Prohibir los Usos de Centros de Datos Dentro de la Ciudad de Coachella.
INFORMATIVO:
SE SUSPENDE LA SESIÓN:
ESTA REUNIÓN ES ACCESIBLE PARA PERSONAS CON DISCAPACIDAD Los paquetes completos de la agenda están disponibles para inspección pública en el Departamento de Servicios de Desarrollo en 53-990 Enterprise Way, Coachella, California, y en el sitio web de la ciudad www.coachella.org.
4 City Council Chamber
1515 6th Street, Coachella, California
(760) 398-3502 www.coachella.org
MINUTES
OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE
CITY OF COACHELLA
PLANNING COMMISSION
July 1, 2026
6:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Vice Chairperson Torres.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Present: X Chairperson Lara
X Vice Chairperson Torres
Commissioner Fonseca
X Commissioner Ordorica
Commissioner Murillo
X Alternate Commissioner Ambriz
Staff Present: *Kendra Reif, Community Development Director. *Adrian Moreno, Associate Planner.
*Vanessa Sanchez-Meza, Planning Technician.
*Lizzandro Diaz, Building Official
*Jason Stevens, Information Technology Manager
*Angela M. Zepeda, City Clerk
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
“At this time the Commission may announce any items being pulled from the agenda or continued to another date or request the moving of an item on the agenda.”
MOTION MOVED BY VICE CHAIRPERSON TORRES SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER ORDORICA TO APPROVE THE AGENDA.
Approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Chairperson Lara, Vice Chairperson Torres, Commissioner Ordorica.
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Fonseca, Commissioner Murillo.
5 Item 1.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
1. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes June 17, 2026.
MOTION MOVED BY COMMISSIONER ORDORICA SECONDED BY VICE CHAIRPERSON TORRES WITH A MODIFICATION TO CORRECT THE IDENTIFIED ERROR. THE MINUTES INCORRECTLY
STATED THAT VICE CHAIRPERSON TORRES SECONDED THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES; THE RECORD WAS CORRECTED TO REFLECT THAT CHAIRPERSON LARA SECONDED THE MOTION TO APPROVE THE MINUTES.
Approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Chairperson Lara, Vice Chairperson Torres, Commissioner Ordorica.
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Fonseca, Commissioner Murillo.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS:
THERE WERE NO WRITTEN COMMENTS RECEIVED.
PUBLIC COMMENTS (NON-AGENDA ITEMS):
“The public may address the Commission on any item of interest to the public that is not on the agenda, but is within the subject matter jurisdiction thereof. Please limit your comments to three (3) minutes.” Public Comments Opened at 6:03 PM by Chairperson Lara.
Public Comments Closed at 6:03 PM by Chairperson Lara.
REPORTS AND REQUESTS:
NON-HEARING ITEMS:
PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR (QUASI-JUDICIAL):
2. Request for Continuance to a Date and Time Uncertain - KPC Project: General Plan Amendment (GPA) No. 22-03, Specific Plan (SP) No. 22-01, Change of Zone (CZ) No. 22-04, and Certification of Environmental Impact Report (EA 22-06) located in the eastern portion of Coachella near Interstate 10 (I-10). Applicant: The KPC Group.
Kendra Reif, Community Development Director, briefly discussed that was no report associated with this item and recommended that the Planning Commission continue the item to a date and time uncertain. It was noted that any future meetings will need to be re-noticed.
IT WAS MOVED BY CHAIRPERSON LARA AND SECOND BY COMMISSIONER ORDORICA TO CONTINUE GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA) NO. 22-03, SPECIFIC PLAN (SP) NO. 22-01, CHANGE OF ZONE (CZ) NO. 22-04, AND CERTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (EA 22-06) TO A DATE AND TIME UNCERTAIN.
6 Item 1.
3. A Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. PC2026-21 and Resolution No. PC2026-22 of the Planning Commission of the City of Coachella for the recommendation of conditional approval of Conditional Use Permit (CUP) No. 402 and Architectural Review (AR) No. 26-03 for the construction of a new 910 square foot drive-thru coffee shop (7 Brew) within an existing shopping center at 49723 Cesar Chavez Street (APN 603-281-053 and 603-281-054), and determining that the proposed project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines Section 15303 (Class 3 – New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). Applicant: LeAnne Scott Vanessa Sanchez-Meza, Planning Technician, gave a brief presentation for the item. A copy of the presentation is on file with the Planning Division. At the conclusion of Vanessa Sanchez-Meza’s presentation Kendra Reif, Community Development Director, requested that Chairperson Lara allow for Angela M. Zepeda to conduct the Oath of Office for Alternate Commission Stephanie Ambriz so she could participate in this portion of the meeting. Chairperson Lara allowed this request and Angela M. Zepeda, City Clerk, administered the Oath of Office to Alternate Commissioner Stephanie Ambriz.
Public Comments Opened at 6:17 PM by Chairperson Lara.
Public Comments Closed at 6:18 PM by Chairperson Lara.
There were no public comments on this item. After the opening and closing of the public comment period Chairperson Lara invited the applicant team up to provide comment. The applicant representative from Kaidence Group, Jenifer Corey, provided comment.
IT WAS MOVED BY COMMISSIONER ORDORICA AND SECOND BY CHAIRPERSON LARA TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NO. PC 2026-21 AND RESOLUTION NO. PC 2026-22 AS RECOMMENDED BY STAFF WITH THE MODIFICATION OF CONDITION OF APPROVAL NUMBER 13 TO FURTHER
CLEARLY DEFINE THE AREA OF REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS FOR REPAVING IN THE EXISTING SHOPPING CENTER PARKING LOT PER THE CONDITION.
Approved by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Chairperson Lara, Vice Chairperson Torres, Commissioner Ordorica, Alternative Commissioner Ambriz.
NOES: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ABSENT: Commissioner Fonseca, Commissioner Murillo.
INFORMATIONAL:
* The next planning commission meeting is scheduled for July 15th * The Planning Commission is anticipated to go dark during the month of August. If there are any changes to the Planning Commission meeting schedule, Kendra Reif, Community Development Director, will notify the Planning Commission.
ADJOURNMENT: 6:36 P.M.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY,
ADRIAN MORENO, PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY
Complete Agenda Packets are available for public inspection in the Development Services Department at 53-990 Enterprise Way, Coachella, California, and on the City’s website www.coachella.org.
7 Item 1.
80237.00870\45194098.1
STAFF REPORT
7/15/2026
TO: Planning Commission Chair and Commissioners
FROM: Gustavo Romo, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Kendra Reif, Community Development Director Ryan Guiboa, City Attorney
SUBJECT: Resolution No. PC 2026-23 Recommending that City Council Adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to Prohibit Data Centers Uses Within the City of Coachella STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend that City Council adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within the City.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
On June 4, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1229, establishing a temporary 45-day moratorium on the acceptance, processing, and approval of applications for Data Center development within the City of Coachella. The urgency ordinance was adopted due to concerns regarding the potential impacts of Data Centers on electrical infrastructure, water resources, air quality, public health, public safety, and land use compatibility.
The moratorium was intended to provide the City with sufficient time to evaluate the impacts associated with Data Center development, review regulatory approaches adopted by other California jurisdictions, and determine whether Data Centers should be regulated, restricted, or prohibited within the City.
Since adoption of the moratorium, staff has reviewed available information regarding Data Centers Uses, including the operational characteristics of such facilities, their resource demands, and actions taken by local jurisdictions throughout California. Based upon this review, staff has determined that Data Centers are incompatible with the City's long-term planning objectives, infrastructure planning assumptions, environmental goals, and economic development priorities. 8 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194098.1
Accordingly, staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend to City Council to adopt an Ordinance, which would add Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within all zoning districts citywide.
BACKGROUND:
Advances in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital storage, and cryptocurrency processing have resulted in increased demand for large-scale Data Centers throughout California and the western United States. These facilities typically operate on a continuous twenty-four-hour basis and require significant electrical infrastructure, cooling systems, backup power generation equipment, and other supporting infrastructure.
In early 2026, the City began evaluating a proposed large-scale technology campus that included Data Center components and was anticipated to serve as a primary electrical customer for the proposed Coachella Municipal Utility. During the preliminary review process, City staff identified significant concerns regarding infrastructure demand, utility capacity, environmental impacts, water consumption, emergency response capabilities, and overall land use compatibility.
On May 27, 2026, the City Council received extensive public testimony regarding the potential impacts of Data Centers on the Coachella Valley. Community concerns focused on electrical demand, water consumption, air quality impacts, noise generation, environmental sustainability, and economic benefits associated with Data Center development.
On June 4, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1229, pursuant to Government Code Section 65858, establishing a temporary moratorium on Data Center development for 45 days. This urgency ordinance was adopted to preserve the status quo while the City evaluated appropriate long-term regulatory actions.
On July 8, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1230, pursuant to Government Code Section 65858, to extend the moratorium on Data Center development for an additional 10 months and 15 days. This urgency ordinance was adopted to continue preserving the status quo while the City implemented what it has determined is the appropriate long-term regulatory action.
Since adoption of the moratorium, staff has reviewed the regulatory approaches being considered and adopted by other California jurisdictions. Several cities have adopted temporary moratoria on Data Center development, while at least one California jurisdiction has adopted a permanent prohibition on Data Centers based on similar concerns regarding utility demand, environmental impacts, and land use compatibility.
DISCUSSION/ANALYSIS:
Water Resource Protection
9 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194098.1
One of the primary concerns associated with Data Center development is water consumption.
Modern Data Centers frequently rely upon water-intensive cooling systems to maintain operational temperatures and support continuous computing functions. The Coachella Valley faces ongoing water supply challenges associated with drought conditions on both the State Water Project and Colorado River, groundwater sustainability requirements, imported water limitations, and long-term climate uncertainty.
Staff believes preservation of available water resources for residential, commercial, agricultural, recreational, educational, public safety, and future community-serving uses constitutes a significant public purpose and supports adoption of the proposed ordinance.
Electrical Infrastructure and Utility Planning
Data Centers are among the most electricity-intensive forms of development currently being proposed throughout California. Large-scale facilities may require substantial electrical infrastructure investments, including substations, transmission facilities, distribution infrastructure, backup generation systems, and battery storage systems.
The City has determined that permitting Data Centers could significantly affect future electrical infrastructure planning, utility capacity allocation decisions, municipal utility planning assumptions, and long-term growth management objectives.
Public Health and Environmental Protection
Data Centers commonly utilize cooling systems, ventilation equipment, transformers, battery storage systems, fuel storage systems, and backup generators. These facilities may generate noise, vibration, heat, emissions, and other operational impacts that differ substantially from traditional commercial and industrial development.
The City has determined that protecting air quality, environmental quality, drinking water resources, and public health constitutes an important governmental interest supporting adoption of the proposed ordinance.
Emergency Response Considerations
Large-scale Data Centers may contain substantial electrical infrastructure, battery storage systems, fuel storage facilities, cooling systems, and hazardous materials. Such facilities may present specialized fire protection and emergency response challenges requiring additional public resources and operational considerations.
Economic Development and Land Use Compatibility
Industrial and employment-designated land within the City represents a limited public resource.
Data Centers generally generate fewer permanent jobs than many commercial, industrial, manufacturing, and research-oriented uses while consuming substantial infrastructure capacity and utility resources.
10 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194098.1
The City Council has expressed a desire to preserve available industrial land and utility capacity for development that generates greater employment opportunities, economic diversification, workforce development, and community benefits.
Based upon these considerations, staff has determined that Data Centers and High-Energy Digital Infrastructure Uses are incompatible with the City's long-term planning objectives and recommends City Council’s adoption of an Ordinance prohibiting such uses within the City.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
The proposed Resolution is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3) because the Resolution recommends prohibiting a category of development and can be seen with certainty that the action will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable physical change in the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Adoption of the proposed Resolution is not anticipated to have a direct fiscal impact on the City.
Staff time associated with implementation and enforcement of the Resolution will be absorbed within existing departmental budgets.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. Recommend that City Council adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within the City.
2. Recommend that City Council do not adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within the City.
3. Take no position regarding whether City Council should adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter
17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within the City.
4. Continue this item and provide staff with direction.
RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE(S):
Staff recommends Alternative No. 1:
1. Recommend that City Council adopt an Ordinance Adding Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within the City.
ATTACHMENTS:
11 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194098.1
1. Resolution PC 2026-23
Attachment “A” Proposed City Council Ordinance
2. Desert Sun Notice of Public Hearing
12 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
1 RESOLUTION NO. PC 2026-23
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
APPROVAL OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER
17.92 TO TITLE XVII OF THE COACHELLA MUNICIPAL CODE
TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS USES WITHIN THE CITY OF
COACHELLA.
WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority granted to the City of Coachella (“City”) by Article XI, Section 7 of the California Constitution, the City has the police power to regulate the use of land and property within the City in a manner designed to promote public convenience and general prosperity, as well as public health, welfare, and safety; WHEREAS, adoption and enforcement of comprehensive zoning regulations and other land use regulations lies within the City’s police power; WHEREAS, in early 2026, the City began evaluating a proposed large-scale technology campus that included Data Center components and was anticipated to serve as a primary electrical customer for the proposed Coachella Municipal Utility. During the preliminary review process, City staff identified significant concerns regarding infrastructure demand, utility capacity, environmental impacts, water consumption, emergency response capabilities, and overall land use compatibility; WHEREAS, on June 4, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1229, pursuant to Government Code Section 65858, establishing a temporary moratorium on Data Center development for 45 days;
WHEREAS, on July 8, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1230, pursuant to Government Code Section 65858, to extend the moratorium on Data Center development for an additional 10 months and 15 days; WHEREAS, staff has now had time to thoroughly evaluate the impacts of Data Centers and determine an effective way to regulate Data Centers within the City; WHEREAS, staff now proposes an Ordinance, which is attached hereto as Attachment “A” and incorporated herein by reference, which would add Chapter 17.92 to Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code to prohibit Data Centers Uses within all zoning districts citywide;
WHEREAS, the subject Municipal Code Amendment is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2), 15060(c)(3), and 15061(b)(3). The activity is not subject to CEQA because it will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment; WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Coachella (“Planning Commission”) conducted a properly noticed public hearing on July 15, 2026 at which 13 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
2 members of the public were afforded an opportunity to comment upon this Ordinance, the recommendations of staff, and other public testimony; and WHEREAS, after said public hearing, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council approve this Ordinance.
NOW THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The Planning Commission hereby specifically finds that all of the facts set forth in the recitals of this Resolution are true and correct and are incorporated into this Resolution by reference and constitute a material part of this Resolution.
SECTION 2. Recommendation to City Council. Based on the entire record before the Planning Commission, all written and oral evidence presented to the Planning Commission, and the findings made in the staff report and this Resolution, the Planning Commission of the City of Coachella hereby recommends that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. _____ entitled: “AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 17.92 TO TITLE
XVII OF THE COACHELLA MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS USES WITHIN THE CITY OF COACHELLA” which is attached hereto as Attachment “A” and incorporated herein by reference.
SECTION 3. Findings. The Planning Commission finds that the amendments to the Coachella Municipal Code (Zoning) proposed by the above referenced ordinance are consistent with the goals and policies of all elements of the General Plan and exercise the City’s land use powers to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public which would be put at risk if commercial cannabis activity is allowed to move forward in the City without local regulation and enforcement abilities.
The Planning Commission also finds that the proposed amendments to the Coachella Municipal Code (Zoning) is in the public interest, and for the benefit of the health, safety, convenience, or welfare of the City.
The Planning Commission also finds that the proposed amendments to the Coachella Municipal Code (Zoning) are internally consistent with other applicable provisions of this Zoning Code.
SECTION 4. CEQA. The Planning Commission finds that this Resolution is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
14 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
3 SECTION 5. Certification. The Secretary shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution.
SECTION 6. Location and Custodian of Records. The documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings are based are located at Coachella Civic Center. The Development Services Director is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
SECTION 7. Execution of Resolution. The Chairperson shall sign this Resolution and the Planning Commission Secretary shall attest and certify to the passage and adoption thereof.
SECTION 8. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Resolution is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Resolution. The Planning Commission of the City of Coachella hereby declares that it would have adopted this Resolution and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.
15 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
4 APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the members of the City of Coachella Planning Commission on this 15th day of July, 2026.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
__________________________________
Eva Lara, Chairperson
City of Coachella
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Kendra Reif
Planning Commission Secretary
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________
Best Best & Krieger
City Attorney
16 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
5 I, Kendra Reif, Planning Secretary, City of Coachella, California, certify that the foregoing Resolution was adopted by the Planning Commission at a regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on the 15th of July, 2026, and was adopted by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_____________________________
Kendra Reif, Planning Secretary
17 Item 2.
80237.00870\45194239.1
6 ATTACHMENT “A”
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 17.92 TO TITLE XVII OF THE COACHELLA
MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS USES WITHIN THE CITY OF
COACHELLA
18 Item 2.
City of Coachella
Ordinance No. ____
80237.00870\45194242.1
ORDINANCE NO. ___
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 17.92 TO TITLE XVII OF THE COACHELLA
MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT DATA CENTERS USES WITHIN THE CITY
OF COACHELLA
WHEREAS, Article XI, Section 7 of the California Constitution authorizes cities to adopt and enforce ordinances and regulations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare; and WHEREAS, the City of Coachella possesses broad police powers to regulate land uses and development within its jurisdiction in order to protect public health, safety, welfare, and the environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is authorized pursuant to Government Code Sections 65850, 65853, 65854, and 65860 to adopt and amend zoning regulations governing the use of land within the City; and
WHEREAS, advances in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital storage, cryptocurrency processing, and related technologies have resulted in a substantial increase in proposals for large-scale Data Centers Uses throughout California and the western United States; and
WHEREAS, Data Centers differ substantially from traditional office, industrial, warehouse, research and development, and commercial uses because they may operate continuously on a twenty-four-hour basis and require extensive electrical, cooling, telecommunications, and utility infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, Data Centers commonly consume extraordinary quantities of electricity and water and may require substantial investments in substations, transmission facilities, backup generation systems, battery storage systems, cooling systems, and other supporting infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that Data Centers may create substantial demands on local electrical infrastructure and utility systems and may affect future utility planning, infrastructure capacity, and long-term electrical reliability within the City; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that Data Centers may require substantial quantities of potable and recycled water for cooling and operational purposes; and WHEREAS, the Coachella Valley is located within a region subject to long-term water supply constraints, groundwater sustainability requirements, recurring drought conditions, climaterelated water resource challenges, and increasing demands upon limited water resources; and 19 Item 2.
City of Coachella
Ordinance No. ____
80237.00870\45194242.1
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that preservation of available water supplies for residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, public facilities, businesses, emergency services, agricultural operations, and future community development constitutes a significant public purpose; and
WHEREAS, Data Centers frequently utilize cooling systems, transformers, emergency generators, battery storage systems, fuel storage systems, ventilation equipment, and related infrastructure that may generate noise, vibration, heat, emissions, hazardous materials concerns, and other operational impacts; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that such operational characteristics may create public health, environmental, emergency response, and land use compatibility concerns that differ substantially from those associated with traditional commercial and industrial development; and WHEREAS, Data Centers may require specialized fire protection measures, hazardous materials response capabilities, electrical infrastructure protection measures, and emergency response resources due to the nature of the equipment and infrastructure associated with such facilities; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that industrial and employment-designated land within the City constitutes a limited and valuable public resource; and WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that Data Centers generally provide substantially fewer long-term employment opportunities relative to the amount of land area, electrical infrastructure capacity, water resources, and public services required to support such facilities; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to preserve available industrial and employment lands for uses that generate greater employment opportunities, workforce development, economic diversification, tax revenue generation, and community-serving benefits; and WHEREAS, on June 4, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Ordinance No. 1229 establishing a temporary moratorium on Data Center development within the City pursuant to Government Code Section 65858; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of Urgency Ordinance No. 1229 was to allow the City sufficient time to evaluate the impacts associated with Data Centers and to determine whether such uses should be regulated, restricted, or prohibited within the City; and WHEREAS, during the moratorium period, City staff evaluated the operational characteristics, infrastructure requirements, environmental impacts, public health considerations, land use compatibility issues, and regulatory approaches associated with Data Centers Uses; and WHEREAS, the City Council has considered information regarding actions taken by other California jurisdictions, including temporary moratoria, zoning restrictions, and permanent prohibitions applicable to Data Centers; and
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WHEREAS, the City Council has received and considered public testimony from residents, stakeholders, and community members regarding the potential impacts associated with Data Center development; and
WHEREAS, after considering all information presented, the City Council finds that Data Centers Uses are not compatible with the City's long-term planning objectives, infrastructure planning assumptions, environmental sustainability goals, economic development priorities, and community vision; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that prohibiting Data Centers Uses throughout the City is necessary to protect public health, safety, welfare, natural resources, infrastructure capacity, and community character; and
WHEREAS, the City Council further finds that adoption of this Ordinance promotes the orderly development of the City and serves the best interests of the residents of Coachella.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COACHELLA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. INCORPORATION OF RECITALS. The City Council hereby finds that all of the foregoing recitals presented herewith are true and correct and are hereby incorporated and adopted as findings of the City Council.
SECTION 2. GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY FINDINGS
The City Council hereby finds that this Ordinance is consistent with, advances, and implements the goals and policies of the City of Coachella General Plan, including but not limited to the following:
A. Land Use Element Policy 7.3 (Heavy Industry)
Policy 7.3 provides that heavy industrial uses should be located in locations that do not affect sensitive uses.
The City Council finds that Data Centers and High-Energy Digital Infrastructure Uses frequently involve industrial-scale cooling systems, substations, transformers, backup generators, battery storage systems, fuel storage systems, and related infrastructure capable of generating noise, vibration, heat, emissions, lighting, and other operational impacts. Prohibiting such facilities citywide promotes Policy 7.3 by protecting residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, childcare facilities, places of worship, and other sensitive land uses from potential adverse impacts associated with industrial-scale infrastructure.
B. Land Use Element Policy 7.4 (Impact of Industrial Development) Policy 7.4 requires industrial development to be designed for compatibility with surrounding uses and to minimize impacts on neighboring properties.
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The City Council finds that Data Centers are unique industrial-scale facilities that operate continuously and require extensive utility infrastructure, cooling systems, backup power systems, and related facilities that may not be compatible with surrounding land uses. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 7.4 by ensuring that future industrial development within the City remains compatible with surrounding neighborhoods and community-serving uses.
C. Land Use Element Policy 7.5 (Industrial Compatibility) Policy 7.5 requires industrial projects to be designed to limit impacts on residential areas.
The City Council finds that construction and operation of Data Centers may involve substantial infrastructure installation, utility improvements, equipment deliveries, maintenance activities, and supporting industrial operations that may adversely affect nearby residential areas. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 7.5 by preventing industrial-scale impacts from affecting existing and planned residential neighborhoods.
D. Fiscal Sustainability Policy 13.1 (Fiscal Impact Assessment) Policy 13.1 requires evaluation of fiscal impacts associated with major development projects.
The City Council finds that Data Centers may require substantial public and private investment in utility infrastructure, electrical systems, emergency response resources, and public facilities while generating comparatively limited permanent employment opportunities and economic multipliers.
This Ordinance promotes Policy 13.1 by ensuring that future development occurs in a manner that supports long-term fiscal sustainability.
E. Fiscal Sustainability Policy 13.2 (Development Fees) Policy 13.2 seeks to maintain the fiscal health of the City and ensure adequate funding of public facilities and services.
The City Council finds that Data Centers may create demands on infrastructure and public services that are disproportionate to the economic and fiscal benefits generated by such facilities.
Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 13.2 by preserving public infrastructure capacity and reducing the potential need for significant public investment associated with such facilities.
F. Fiscal Sustainability Policy 13.3 (Efficient Growth) Policy 13.3 directs the City to manage growth in a manner that is fiscally sustainable and protects and enhances community values.
The City Council finds that preservation of limited industrial land, utility capacity, infrastructure resources, and water resources for employment-generating and community-serving development is consistent with fiscally sustainable growth and protection of community values. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 13.3 by preserving finite resources for future development opportunities that more directly advance the City's economic and community objectives. 22 Item 2.
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G. Fiscal Sustainability Policy 13.4 (Diverse Tax Base) Policy 13.4 promotes the establishment of a diverse and sustainable tax base.
The City Council finds that Data Centers generally generate fewer permanent jobs and limited sales tax revenues when compared to commercial, industrial, manufacturing, hospitality, research and development, and mixed-use developments. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 13.4 by preserving development opportunities that contribute more significantly to employment growth, economic diversification, and tax revenue generation.
H. Fiscal Sustainability Policy 13.7 (Fiscal Impacts of Infrastructure) Policy 13.7 discourages developments requiring the construction of new infrastructure across large expanses of undeveloped areas.
The City Council finds that large-scale Data Centers frequently require substantial electrical transmission facilities, substations, distribution systems, telecommunications infrastructure, cooling systems, and related utility improvements. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 13.7 by discouraging development that may require extensive infrastructure expansion and significant utility investments.
I. Public Services Element Policy 1.10 (Minimized Environmental Impacts) Policy 1.10 directs utilities to be located and designed to avoid or minimize impacts to environmentally sensitive resources and habitats.
The City Council finds that Data Centers frequently require extensive utility infrastructure, including substations, transmission facilities, cooling systems, battery storage systems, backup generation systems, and related improvements. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes Policy 1.10 by reducing the potential need for utility infrastructure that may adversely affect environmental resources and by supporting responsible infrastructure planning.
J. Conservation and Resource Stewardship
The General Plan promotes the responsible stewardship of natural resources, efficient use of infrastructure, and sustainable growth.
The City Council finds that Data Centers commonly consume substantial quantities of electricity and water for operational and cooling purposes. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes the General Plan's resource conservation objectives by preserving finite water supplies and utility capacity for residential, commercial, public service, agricultural, and employment-generating uses.
K. Economic Development and Employment Objectives
The General Plan encourages economic development that creates employment opportunities, promotes workforce development, diversifies the local economy, and expands the City's tax base. 23 Item 2.
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The City Council finds that industrial and employment-designated lands within the City constitute a limited resource that should be preserved for uses generating substantial employment opportunities and community benefits. Prohibiting Data Centers promotes these objectives by preserving land and infrastructure capacity for development that more effectively advances the City's economic development goals.
L. Overall General Plan Consistency
The City Council finds that this Ordinance promotes sustainable growth, fiscal sustainability, environmental stewardship, infrastructure efficiency, economic opportunity, public health, community character, and quality of life. Accordingly, the City Council finds that this Ordinance is consistent with and furthers the goals, policies, and implementation measures of the City of Coachella General Plan.
SECTION 3. CHAPTER 17.92 ADDED TO TITLE XVII OF THE COACHELLA MUNICIPAL CODE.
Title XVII of the Coachella Municipal Code is hereby amended to add Chapter 17.92 to read in its entirety as follows:
CHAPTER 17.92 – DATA CENTERS
17.92.010 – Intent and Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to protect the public health, safety, general welfare, natural resources, infrastructure capacity, community character, and quality of life in the city. The city council finds that Data Centers are not compatible with surrounding uses in any zone of the city because of the extraordinary demand they place on the city’s electrical, water, and telecommunication infrastructure. In addition, the city council finds that the operation of Data Centers may generate noise, vibrations, heat, emissions, and hazardous materials. Furthermore, the city council finds that Data Centers may require specialized fire protection measures, hazardous materials response capabilities, electrical infrastructure protection measures, and emergency response resources. Based on the foregoing, the city council has determined that the operational characteristics of Data Centers can create public health, environmental, emergency response, and land use compatibility concerns that differ substantially from those associated with traditional commercial and industrial development. As a result, the city council finds that prohibiting Data Centers throughout the City is necessary to protect public health, safety, general welfare, natural resources, infrastructure capacity, community character, and quality of life in the city.
17.92.020 – Definitions.
“DATA CENTER” means a structure or site used primarily for the storage, management, processing, and transmission of digital data and that houses computer or network equipment, systems, servers, appliances, and other associated components related to digital data storage, processing, and related operations. Data center uses include data storage facilities, small data storage facilities, server farms, artificial intelligence training or processing, image processing, cloud computing, email servicing, and other similar uses and appurtenant facilities. 24 Item 2.
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17.92.030 – Prohibition on Data Centers.
Data Centers are prohibited throughout the city. No person shall permit, establish, or operate a Data Center at any property within any zone of the city.
17.92.040 – Exemptions.
The following shall not be considered prohibited uses under this chapter:
A. Accessory server rooms that are incidental and subordinate to a permitted principal use.
B. Information technology facilities operated by governmental agencies.
C. Telecommunications facilities otherwise authorized by the Municipal Code.
D. Data processing equipment utilized by schools, hospitals, public agencies, public safety facilities, utilities, and similar institutional uses where such equipment is accessory to the principal permitted use.
17.92.050 – Nonconforming Uses.
No use prohibited by this chapter shall be established after the effective date of this chapter.
Any lawfully established use existing prior to the effective date of this chapter shall be subject to Chapter 17.78 of this code.
17.92.060 – Enforcement.
The Community Development Director, Building Official, Code Enforcement Division, and City Attorney are authorized to enforce the provisions of this chapter.
Any violation of this chapter is designated as a misdemeanor and a public nuisance. The nuisance may be enjoined or otherwise abated by the city in the manner prescribed by Title 3 of this Code and any other applicable provision of state or local law.
SECTION 4. CEQA DETERMINATION.
The City Council finds that this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15061(b)(3), 15060(c)(2), and 15060(c)(3), because the prohibition of a category of development will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable physical change in the environment.
SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY.
If any section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, or clause or phrase in this Ordinance or any part thereof is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, invalid or ineffective by any court of competent 25 Item 2.
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jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity or effectiveness of the remaining portions of this Ordinance or any part thereof. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted each section irrespective of the fact that any one or more subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, or phrases are declared unconstitutional, invalid, or ineffective.
SECTION 6. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after adoption.
SECTION 7. PUBLICATION.
The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and cause it, or a summary of it, to be published in a newspaper of general circulation printed and published within the City of Coachella, pursuant to all legal requirements.
SECTION 8. CERTIFICATION.
The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause it to be published in accordance with California Government Code Section 36933. 26 Item 2.
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I hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance was PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Coachella on the XXth day of XX, 2026.
DR. FRANK FIGUEROA
MAYOR
ATTEST:
ANGELA M. ZEPEDA
CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
RYAN GUIBOA
CITY ATTORNEY
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
CITY OF COACHELLA
)
) ss.
)
I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing Ordinance No. ___ was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Coachella at a regular meeting thereof, held on this XXth day of XX 2026 by the following vote of Council:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
___________________________________
Delia Granados
Deputy City Clerk
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