Organizers, City Leaders, and Residents React To Delayed Data Center Moratorium Vote
The Memphis City Council voted 7-5 to delay action on a proposed data center moratorium and related ordinances until October 20. Residents, organizers and environmental advocates protested the postponement, citing concerns about infrastructure, air quality and impacts on the Memphis Sand Aquifer.
The Memphis City Council postponed a vote on a proposed data center moratorium and other related ordinances until its October 20 meeting. Vice Chairman Chase Carlisle said the council needed more time to resolve outstanding issues, and members agreed to meet separately to continue working on the proposals.
The 7-5 vote prompted protests from residents and community organizers, leading Council Chairwoman Jana Swearengen-Washington to call a recess. KeShaun Pearson of Memphis Community Against Pollution criticized the lack of public comment and said supporters would return for the next vote. Council member Jerri Green, who opposed the delay, said residents were raising urgent concerns about the effects of heavy industrial data centers on public infrastructure, air quality and the Memphis Sand Aquifer. The debate also includes concerns over support for xAI.