Memphis City Council delays vote on data center moratorium

A Memphis City Hall meeting regarding Elon Musk’s data center operations descended into disorder on Tuesday. The Memphis City Council postponed a final vote on a proposed ordinance that would implement a temporary moratorium on new data center construction. If passed, the moratorium would suspend such development for up to 12 months or until a new regulatory framework is established.

The debate drew intense opposition from residents and advocacy groups like Indivisible Memphis, who accused council members of prioritizing corporate interests over community needs. The confrontation included shouting, the use of bullhorns, and reports of physical altercations, prompting an increased police presence and the temporary suspension of the session. Council members have scheduled a work session for October 8 to address outstanding questions regarding the proposal.