Metro Council to vote on plan to use eminent domain to block data center
The Nashville Metro Council is voting on a plan to use eminent domain to acquire property recently purchased by DC BLOX for a data center near the Nashville Zoo. Mayor Freddy O'Connell proposed this plan following significant public opposition and concerns from the zoo regarding potential impacts on animals. If passed, it would initiate condemnation proceedings, with DC BLOX indicating they will pursue legal action.
The Nashville Metro Council is set to vote on a controversial bill tonight that would initiate the process for the Metro government to use eminent domain to acquire a property near the Nashville Zoo. This land was recently purchased by DC BLOX for $23 million last month, with plans to build a data center.
The proposed data center has faced considerable public opposition, including a petition that garnered over 500,000 signatures, driven by concerns raised by the Nashville Zoo about potential impacts on its animals. In response to this opposition, Mayor Freddy O'Connell introduced the plan for Metro to take the land through eminent domain.
Council members are scheduled to consider the legislation for a third and final time. Council member Quinn Evans Seagull has proposed an amendment to make Metro's appraisal of the land public, questioning the best use of taxpayer dollars for such an extraordinary power outside of traditional infrastructure projects.
It is crucial to note that tonight's decision would not immediately transfer the land to Metro. Instead, it would lead to a condemnation action, followed by negotiations or a legal battle over the property and its price. DC BLOX representatives have previously stated their intent to pursue legal action if the bill passes.