Data centers

Self-described "AI sheriff" who wants the city to build an AI education program for local middle and high schoolers instead of fearing the technology, saying big data centers belong near places like Lawrence Livermore lab.

Opposed large warehouses and data centers, saying his water and PG&E bills have doubled in 25 years and the small-town feel is disappearing.

Pointed to the Pittsburg data center approved at 99 megawatts (expandable to 500) and said two AI data centers on the same waterway and power sources would be reckless; urged an outright ban.

Representing construction labor trusts, argued data centers are critical infrastructure — most smaller than a Home Depot — that create jobs, and urged regulating them through the planning process instead of banning them.

A Pittsburg resident supporting the ban; said she works in tech and has built data centers, and that giant expansive facilities aren't necessary given current environmental impacts.

Software engineer who said hyperscale data centers aren't needed, raised e-waste concerns (thousands of tons with mercury and lead leaching), and warned the AI boom is a bubble that could leave abandoned facilities; supports a ban.

Spoke on carbon capture meetings, Marsh Creek studies getting international attention, and warned against data centers, citing water shortages in Utah and plastic contamination risks.