Memphis City Council postpones data center moratorium vote amid chaotic meeting
A contentious Memphis City Council meeting ended with shouting, physical altercations and protesters being removed after council members postponed a vote on a proposed data center moratorium for the second time. The council may revisit the measure in about two weeks, with another meeting scheduled for October 20.
More than 100 people attended a Memphis City Council meeting where members again delayed a vote on a proposed moratorium that would stop or delay new data center development. The postponement prompted heated exchanges among attendees, shouting and a fight inside or near City Hall, leading officials to clear parts of the building.
Council members were divided over the moratorium. Councilwoman Gulati Cooper argued with an attendee, while Councilman J.B. Smiley said the confrontation and disorder were unnecessary and urged tensions to ease. Protesters said they intended to continue pressing the council, which could reconsider the moratorium in approximately two weeks; the next reported moratorium meeting is scheduled for October 20.