Memphis City Council delays vote on data center moratorium
The Memphis City Council delayed voting on a proposed one-year moratorium on new data center projects after a heated meeting. The moratorium is intended to pause development while the city considers rules addressing water use, power demand, pollution and community input.
The Memphis City Council postponed a vote on a proposed 12-month moratorium on new data center development after extended debate and a contentious meeting at City Hall. Instead, council members voted to hold three related ordinances for further work, with a working session scheduled for Thursday and the next full council meeting set for Oct. 20.
Councilman J.B. Smiley, who sponsored the moratorium, said the city should engage nearby communities before adopting broader regulations. Residents and other supporters, including Keshaun Pearson, Kevin Morales and Sara Guessoum, criticized the delay and cited concerns about pollution, health effects, water use and electricity demand. The proposal remains under consideration, with no final vote reported.