Memphis City Council proposes 12-month data center moratorium

The Memphis City Council has introduced an ordinance that would implement a 12-month moratorium on new data center development and high-density computing facilities within the city. The proposal, introduced by Council Chairwoman Jana Swearengen-Washington and several councilmembers, aims to pause new applications while the city reassesses zoning laws and conducts studies regarding land and utility usage.

While the moratorium would not apply to existing facilities, such as the two SpaceX AI campuses currently in Memphis, the measure seeks to increase transparency and community input. Environmental groups, including Protect Our Aquifer and Memphis Community Against Pollution, have expressed support for the pause to ensure better stewardship of local resources.