Nashville Mayor Plans To Use Eminent Domain To Stop Data Center Near Zoo
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell announced the city will initiate eminent domain proceedings to stop a proposed data center development by DC BLOX near the Nashville Zoo. This decision comes amidst significant public opposition, a pending petition with over 533,000 signatures, and questions regarding the legal justification for using eminent domain for this purpose. Concurrently, the Metro Council is considering proposed ordinances for new data center regulations and a temporary moratorium.
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell has announced that the city will pursue eminent domain proceedings to halt a proposed data center project by DC BLOX located near the Nashville Zoo. The mayor's office stated that condemnation legislation would be filed, citing a "legitimate need for this property" and community concerns. This move raises questions about the definition of "public use" for eminent domain under Tennessee law and the Fifth Amendment, as traditionally it applies to infrastructure like roads or bridges.
DC BLOX attorney Doug Sloan has claimed the company has permits in hand and is proceeding, but public records indicate numerous reviews and inspections are still pending for final permit approval. Rollin Horton, Chair of the Metro Planning Commission, expressed skepticism regarding the completeness and vested status of DC BLOX's permits, suggesting that new legislation could still protect the community.
In response to public pressure, which includes a petition with over 533,000 signatures, the Metro Council is slated to hold a public hearing on July 7 for two proposed ordinances. One aims to create new data center regulations, establishing size limits and maximum electrical capacities, and restricting locations near homes, schools, and zoos. The other proposes a temporary moratorium on new data centers. Mayor O’Connell had previously signed an executive order supporting the moratorium.