Records reveal behind-the-scenes talks to bring data centers to Lake Hico site
Records reveal that Jackson city leaders, led by Mayor John Horn, were conducting behind-the-scenes discussions to attract a $1 billion hyperscale data center to the Lake Hico site. These talks involved utility company Entergy Mississippi and the city attorney's office drafting a data center ordinance, even as some council members considered a freeze on such facilities. Councilwoman Tina Clay has expressed strong opposition, alleging that the city's budget shortfall was exaggerated to pressure for this deal.
An investigation by WLBT has uncovered records revealing that Jackson city leaders were engaged in private discussions regarding a potential $1 billion data center project at the 654-acre Lake Hico site in northwest Jackson. These talks were occurring behind closed doors, with some city council members reportedly unaware of the unfolding plans.
The timeline shows that on April 27th, tech entrepreneur Ashley Cephus sent a detailed brief to Mayor John Horn, pitching the Lake Hico site as ideal for a hyperscale data center, projecting private investment of $5-$15 million and an annual city revenue of up to $20 million. Just three days later, on April 30th, Mayor Horn was scheduled to meet with Entergy Mississippi CEO Haley Phizackerley and other utility leaders to discuss data centers, while the city attorney's office was already drafting a data center ordinance. This occurred as the council was reportedly considering a freeze on such facilities.
Ward two Councilwoman Tina Clay voiced strong opposition to the prospective deal and the process, claiming the city's $23 million budget shortfall was inflated to generate public pressure for the data center agreement. Mayor Horn's office defended the discussions, stating that exploring data centers is responsible given their role as the fastest-growing part of the U.S. economy, and dismissed the opposition's claims as counterproductive.