Data Center Prohibition

At a glance

What: Council initiated a text amendment to Chapter 15 of the Fresno Municipal Code (per FMC Section 15-5308-A) to prohibit data centers within the City.
Where it stands: Resolution 2026-209 was adopted September 3, 2026, then reconsidered and re-adopted 7 to 0 with two amendments from Councilmember Vang.
Next: The text amendment itself has to be drafted and heard; no date is recorded in the minutes.

The Mayor and City Manager's office was added as a co-sponsor at agenda approval.
Councilmember Arias moved the item to contested consent to discuss the text amendment; council discussion was held (not summarized).
Motion by Councilmember Richardson, seconded by Councilmember Arias: adopt Resolution 2026-209. Aye 6; Absent Councilmember Karbassi.
Motion by Vice President Maxwell, seconded by Council President Esparza: reconsider. Aye 7.
Councilmember Vang moved approval with two amendments: (1) the prohibition applies to land in or that becomes part of the city of Fresno; (2) Council must be notified immediately of any data center use application.
Motion by Councilmember Richardson, seconded by Council President Esparza: adopt with Councilmember Vang's amendments. Aye 7 (Council President Esparza, Vice President Maxwell, Councilmember Perea, Councilmember Karbassi, Councilmember Arias, Councilmember Vang, Councilmember Richardson).

Resolution 2026-209 adopted, reconsidered, and re-adopted 7 to 0 with Councilmember Vang's two amendments.