Metro Council to vote on seizing land near Nashville Zoo
Nashville's Metro Council is scheduled to vote on exercising eminent domain to seize land purchased by DC BLOX for a proposed data center next to the Nashville Zoo. This action is supported by Mayor O'Connell and the Zoo, who fear risks to vulnerable species. Meanwhile, DC BLOX's permits are pending, and the council is also developing legislation to limit future data center construction in Davidson County.
Nashville's Metro Council is scheduled to take a final vote on August 4 regarding the use of eminent domain to acquire property that DC BLOX recently purchased for $23 million. The property is intended for an AI data center and is located adjacent to the Nashville Zoo. Mayor Freddie O’Connell has publicly expressed support for eminent domain, citing a "legitimate need for this property" and significant concerns from the community and the Zoo about the proposed development.
The Nashville Zoo has actively encouraged the Metro Council to pass the eminent domain bill, stating a commitment to the "health and well-being of the Zoo and our surrounding community." They remain concerned about potential long-term risks to vulnerable species in their care due to a lack of reassuring information. DC BLOX representative Doug Sloan, however, has countered these concerns, noting that the zoo is already situated within an industrial park next to a major railyard.
While permits for DC BLOX's AI data center are still awaiting approval, the Metro Council is also advancing separate legislation. This proposed ordinance aims to restrict future data center construction in Davidson County, specifically by banning large data centers within a half-mile radius of local homes, schools, churches, and zoos.
Concerns about a costly lawsuit from DC BLOX if eminent domain is pursued have been raised by some council members.