CBS California Investigates took cameras inside DataBank’s Irvine facility for an on-air segment and written report examining the growing scrutiny data centers are facing from lawmakers and communities across the state. The piece aired as part of CBS LA’s investigative news franchise and includes a video tour of the facility.

DataBank COO Joe Minarik shared his commentary on the critical importance of data centers, and VP of Sales Tom Panarisi led the tour, walking reporters through the facility’s data halls, uninterruptible power systems, and backup generators. The Irvine location serves hospitals, financial institutions, and public safety agencies including 911 call centers. Minarik acknowledged that some of the opposition data centers face is driven less by the facilities themselves than by what they represent.

“People are scared of AI. They associate data centers with AI. They figure if they stop data centers, they can stop AI.”
— Joe Minarik, COO, DataBank

The article addresses California’s legislative efforts to shield utility customers from increased electricity costs tied to data center demand, as well as broader community concerns about noise, air quality, and energy consumption. Minarik acknowledged that some opposition is driven by anxiety about AI specifically, noting that data centers are often seen as a proxy for the technology itself.

Read the full article and watch the video segment at CBS News Los Angeles.