Public upset about North Jackson data center project at lively hearing
Jackson City Council held a lively public hearing regarding a proposed data center project in North Jackson, drawing significant public opposition over concerns including water use, noise, infrastructure demands, and environmental impact. Residents urged the council to enact a moratorium or ban on data centers. The council did not vote on an ordinance, instead opting to continue gathering public input and working on regulations, with another hearing tentatively scheduled for mid-July.
The Jackson City Council convened a public hearing at Jackson City Hall concerning a proposed data center project in North Jackson, drawing a standing-room-only crowd of at least 80 concerned citizens. Twenty-six individuals voiced strong opposition, citing worries about increased water usage, noise pollution, strain on infrastructure, and detrimental environmental effects.
Candace Abdul-Tawwab, executive director of Mississippi for a Just World, highlighted existing clean water challenges in Jackson and accused data center companies of exploiting poor, predominantly Black communities in the South. She called upon the city council to implement a moratorium or an outright ban on data centers. Wade Brown, president of the Presidential Hills-Natchez Trace Homeowners Association, also expressed firm disapproval, citing health issues and the proposed shift from commercial to industrial zoning.
Attorney Robert Ireland, representing Saxum Investment Group, the company seeking to rezone 190 acres for the data center, was the sole speaker in favor. Ireland emphasized that the company is not disregarding residents' concerns and suggested the council could establish clear regulations for temporary power sources, noise control, and utility infrastructure demands to address these issues without preventing economic development.
Council President Brian Grizzell clarified that no vote would occur at this hearing. He stated the council's intention to gather public feedback, develop comprehensive regulations, and publish a draft in the coming weeks. Another public hearing is tentatively planned for mid-July to allow further comment on approved ordinances. This meeting follows a previous proposed moratorium ordinance in May that was tabled due to legal concerns regarding state zoning laws.