🇺🇸 English, 7 October 2026, data center controversy
Memphis City Council Votes to Postpone Data Center Restrictions
A vote to delay action on proposed data center restrictions in Memphis descended into chaos, with punches thrown and council members excused.
The council voted 7-5 to postpone consideration of the moratorium and five related measures until October 20, with seven council members supporting the delay and five opposing it.
The rapid buildout of data centers has become a political flashpoint across the country, with concerns over electricity and water consumption, environmental impacts, and proximity to residential areas.
Tennessee houses at least 65 data centers, with 13 of these in the Memphis area, according to the Data Center Map website.