Jackson signals intent to explore data center sites weeks after moratorium

The Jackson City Council recently adopted a nonbinding resolution to actively explore suitable locations for data centers within the city, particularly away from residential areas. This decision, passed by a 5-2 vote on August 11, comes less than a month after the city enacted a 183-day moratorium on new data center proposals. Mayor John Horhn and Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes publicly support the initiative, citing the potential for much-needed tax revenue for the city, which faces budget challenges affecting public services.

The resolution, sponsored by Councilman Stokes, aims to move past areas where residents have expressed strong opposition due to concerns about noise, water use, and air pollution. It specifically suggests sites around Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport and Hawkins Field. Council members Ward 2 Councilwoman Tina Clay and Ward 4 Councilman Brian Grizzell voted against the resolution. Grizzell, who authored the original moratorium, emphasized the need for careful regulation during the pause and cautioned against unproven revenue promises, pointing out the proximity of neighborhoods to proposed industrial sites like Hawkins Field.

Public opposition previously led New Jersey-based Saxum Investment Group to postpone a rezoning request for a proposed data center on 190 acres near Forest Avenue and Interstate 220, a project that has not since been re-submitted. The moratorium itself was a direct result of these strong community protests. Despite ongoing debate, city leaders like Mayor Horhn remain advocates for data center development, provided projects are safe, environmentally sound, and financially beneficial to Jackson, Mississippi.