County commissioners consider 12-month data center pause
Shelby County commissioners are considering a proposed moratorium of up to 12 months on new data center development in unincorporated Shelby County. The pause would give county leaders time to work with Memphis City Council on regulations and development safeguards, while the city’s separate moratorium discussion has been delayed.
Shelby County commissioners are considering a proposed 12-month pause on new data center development in unincorporated areas of the county. Supporters say the moratorium would provide time to establish rules and safeguards before additional projects move forward as the industry expands.
District 7 Commissioner Henry Brooks has called for the county moratorium, citing the need for regulatory guardrails. The proposal is intended to complement Memphis City Council’s effort to establish a moratorium and broader regulations; the council delayed its vote until Oct. 20. Commissioners are reviewing the county proposal as they consider how to regulate future data centers.