Calkins: It was bedlam at City Hall — as Memphis is at the center of a national debate once again
Memphis City Council members held a contentious discussion over a proposed data center moratorium, reflecting growing public skepticism about data center development. Council member JB Smiley Jr. asked supporters of the moratorium to stand during the meeting. An unnamed data center project was previously described as representing more than $500 million in investment and over 250 jobs.
A contentious Memphis City Council meeting highlighted public skepticism about data centers and support for a proposed development moratorium. Council member JB Smiley Jr. called on people backing the moratorium to stand, underscoring the intensity of the debate at City Hall.
The article provides limited details because it is an excerpt from columnist Geoff Calkins’ full story. It notes that an unnamed data center project was expected to create more than 250 jobs and bring over $500 million in investment to Memphis, but does not identify the developer or report a final council decision.