Jakarta Aktual – 22 June 2026 | Governor Gavin Newsom‘s stance on data centers is about to be put to the test again, as several bills to regulate the facilities and increase transparency on their impacts progress in the California Legislature. The issue has sparked controversy nationwide, with concerns over water usage, energy consumption, and environmental impact.
Monterey, a city in California, is one of the areas where data centers have been a topic of discussion. The city’s proposed budget for the Southern Berkshire Regional School District has been met with opposition from some residents, who argue that the district has money available to prevent staff cuts. The budget vote is scheduled for June 30, and if four of the five towns do not approve it, the state will impose a month-to-month level-funded budget until a final spending plan is approved.
Meanwhile, Monterey Bay FC has been on a hot streak, with four straight home wins in the USL Championship. The team’s 1-0 win over El Paso Locomotive FC was their first against a Western Conference opponent this season. The Union’s success has been attributed to the arrival of head coach Alex Covelo, who has brought an infusion of offense to the team.
The data center debate is not just a local issue, but also a national one. The Trump administration has announced that it will not set national environmental requirements or recommendations for the data center industry, leaving it to state lawmakers to determine best policies. California’s laws will likely set a national model, as the state is home to Silicon Valley and has a significant impact on the tech industry.
The tension between tech industry supporters and environmental advocates is expected to continue, with Governor Newsom facing a delicate balance between his support for the industry and his commitment to environmental protection.
The stakes are high, not just for Governor Newsom, but also for the people of Monterey and the state of California. The outcome of this debate will have far-reaching consequences for the environment, the economy, and the lives of Californians.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the future of data centers in California is uncertain, and the impact will be felt far beyond the state’s borders.
