Council passes first reading of data center regulation ordinance, gives ban notices
The Memphis City Council passed the first reading of an ordinance establishing regulations and a review process for future data centers. Council members also discussed temporary moratorium proposals, while community activist LJ Abraham said she was barred from attending upcoming meetings after being served a ban notice.
The Memphis City Council resumed discussions on data center regulation after an earlier meeting recess, holding a three-hour work session before completing its regular agenda. Members considered several proposals, including three moratorium measures, a 45-day analysis and a broader legislative and review process for future data center projects.
City Council attorney Allan Wade said state law prevents Memphis from imposing a permanent prohibition, but he said a temporary pause could be used while permanent regulations are developed. The council approved an ordinance on first reading that would establish specific rules and review procedures. Community activist LJ Abraham criticized being barred from two upcoming meetings, including one scheduled before the next data center vote, and questioned whether prior protests justified the ban notices.