FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 19, 2026

Contact: Dr. Kimberly Payton, EdD- drkpaytoneddnaacp@gmail.com

East County NAACP Calls for Transparency and Environmental Justice in Pittsburg Data Center Decisions

 

PITTSBURG, CA — The East County NAACP advocates for civil rights, environmental justice, equity, and community empowerment throughout East Contra Costa County.

 

We stand with the more than 300 Pittsburg residents who attended a recent City Council meeting to voice concerns about the potential impacts of proposed data center developments on public health, environmental resources, and quality of life.

 

While data centers are often promoted as economic development opportunities, residents raised important questions regarding water usage, energy consumption, noise, air quality, and the long-term impact on community resources. The East County NAACP believes these concerns deserve serious consideration and transparent public discussion.

 

"These decisions are about more than technology—they are about environmental justice, public health, and protecting community resources," said Dr. Kimberly Payton, EdD, President of the East County NAACP. "When hundreds of residents participate in the democratic process, their voices must be heard, and their concerns meaningfully addressed."

 

The East County NAACP calls on local leaders to ensure transparency, conduct thorough environmental reviews, and establish clear safeguards that protect residents and community resources before approving major development projects. We are asking the city to share with the residents the following:

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•Was this Data Center approved before 2024?

•The Nov 4, 2024 approval was for the impact studies, not the project

•Will this be a Power Drain on city resources?

•What are the environmental effects?

•What will be the water consumption?

•What is the impact on city resources?

•What will be the air quality from the project? What is the plan for air filtration?

•Will there be a noise issue?

•How will this affect city revenue? Were tax breaks included in the transaction?

•If the project does not move forward, then what are the possible consequences to the city?

•Is there another space outside the city acceptable to build this, and why is this space so important?

•City accountability w/simplified data results. 

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As Congressman John Lewis reminded us, "Democracy is not a state. It is an act." The residents of Pittsburg deserve accountability and a seat at the table as these important decisions move forward.