Native Memphians react to Memphis City Council pausing Data Center plans
The Memphis City Council has paused data center plans following strong opposition from native Memphians concerned about air pollution, water usage, and the overall impact on community health and resources. Residents expressed frustration over environmental impacts and urged a complete stop to such developments.
The Memphis City Council has halted plans for data center development in the city, prompting reactions from local residents.
Native Memphians voiced strong opposition to the projects, citing concerns about environmental and health impacts. Residents expressed worries about "bad for our lungs," "pollution to the air," and the potential strain on resources due to data centers "choosing a lot of water, a lot of everything, all the resources." One resident called the development "very unacceptable, especially for the black communities in White Haven and in Memphis, period." Another resident criticized the use of AI and urged for smart voting.
While appreciative of the temporary pause, some residents expressed a desire for a more permanent solution, noting that a "half of a year" pause might still lead to an "AI center could be built again."