Jackson leaders consider temporary moratorium on data centers after two meetings
Jackson city leaders are considering a temporary moratorium on data center development and expansion, holding two meetings to discuss the issue. City Council President Brian Grizzell emphasized the need for more research, engineering, and environmental considerations before allowing major projects. The discussions coincide with an upcoming public hearing by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality for an air permit related to a proposed data center.
Jackson city leaders are actively discussing a potential temporary moratorium on data center development and expansion, following two meetings held by the Jackson Planning and Economic Development Committee and a special Jackson City Council meeting. Officials are working to establish this temporary halt, citing the need for extensive research before any large-scale projects can proceed.
Jackson City Council President Brian Grizzell highlighted that Mississippi and the Southeast offer attractive conditions for data center developers, but stressed the importance of groundwork, including consultations with engineers and environmentalists, to address unanswered questions. Grizzell also noted the city's need to balance economic opportunities from data centers with other priorities, such as improving schools and increasing access to grocery stores.
This deliberation occurs as the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has scheduled a public hearing for July 14 regarding an air permit application for a proposed data center project. This hearing is expected to offer residents a chance to learn more and voice concerns about the proposal.