Memphis City Council Regular Meeting - February 6, 2024

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on February 6, 2024, at 9:45 AM. The meeting began with a prayer by Pastor James Brodex of Embassy of Faith Ministries, followed by the singing of the Black National Anthem by the Overton High School Choir in recognition of Black History Month. A proclamation was presented to DeAndre Brown for his recent pardon and community service. The council addressed a consent agenda, multiple appointments, two planned development proposals (including a contentious one for a sawmill at 1230 North Watkin Street), and the reappointment of the Director of Public Works. Public comments were heard throughout the meeting, and several items were voted on.

Consent Calendar

• Resolution approving an honorary street name change for Bishop Clinton Charles Bryant (Item 2).
• Ordinance 5896 (Item 5) – second reading.
• Notation from Land Use Control Board setting a public hearing for February 20, 2024, for case SUP 23-26 (towing service without impound lot) (Item 6).
• All consent items passed unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Item 3 (1230 North Watkin Street – Memphis Urban Wood):
  • Supporters: Sarah Carpenter (High Power community) expressed support, emphasizing the need for jobs and blight reduction. Joyce Grimes supported as a recycling advocate. Carleton (employee) highlighted job creation and environmental safety. A representative from Memphis Urban Wood called the project a “North Star for North Memphis.” Wes Hopper (urban forestry consultant) endorsed the landscape plan and stormwater management. Daniel Torres (similar business owner) spoke from experience about positive neighborhood impact. Quincy Jones (Programs Director at The Works) noted entry-level wages of $20/hour and training in Klondike. Mike Larvy (scientist) said the project is a progressive solution for waste management and jobs.
  • Opponents: Lenora Pipkin (83-year-old resident, 60 years in neighborhood) voiced exhaustion from fighting zoning changes. Louise Jones (85-year-old, 49 years resident) cited asthma concerns and health risks from sawdust. Angie Powell called the site the “gateway to my neighborhood” and opposed heavy industrial use. Jane Jeffrey (Evergreen District) criticized the lack of transparency and environmental harm. Karen Edwards presented a petition with 382 signatures against the upzoning. Donald Batiste (87-year-old) warned of mold and termites. Jennifer Sanders (40-year resident) highlighted the need for home repairs and community help. Stephanie Walker noted the health department permit had not been obtained. Natasha Strong (VECA president) urged the council to prioritize health and quality of life.
• Item 7 (Reappointment of Robert Connect):
  • Valentin Ortiz (public works employee) praised Connect for accessibility to the Hispanic community and breaking language barriers. Rekina Patterson listed the 21 divisions of public works. Jerumberg Workers (spelling unclear) criticized Connect for a 2017 sewer dispute, alleging conflict of interest and a pending lawsuit. The City Attorney noted the comments relate to active litigation and the facts are disputed.
• General Comments (end of meeting):
  • Calvin Harris and Jay Hop protested expansion of Golden Gate complex, citing drainage and property value concerns.
  • Brandon Washington urged the council to move forward with the Office of New Americans.
  • Richard Massey highlighted environmental racism in North Memphis and opposed the sawmill plan.
  • Glenda Hicks opposed creating health benefits for elected officials given the city’s 27% poverty rate.
  • Lucille Catron spoke about the ongoing legal battle over the Beale Street Development Corporation, alleging her husband signed away rights while in a coma.
  • Joe Ken asked about MLGW rate increases and public comment access.
  • Walter Brody offered a closing prayer.

Discussion Items

• Item 3 – Plan Development at 1230 North Watkin Street (PD 23-25): The proposal by Memphis Urban Wood to process urban lumber on a vacant lot zoned EMP (light industrial) required a plan development overlay to allow a small electric sawmill. The Division of Planning and Development (DPD) presented amendments restricting uses (e.g., no gas station, no incinerator). The applicant, Rashawn Austin (President of The Works), stated the site was chosen due to availability, tax delinquency, and proximity to Klondike where they have large investments. She argued the project is environmentally friendly, creating jobs, diverting waste, and protecting the nearby creek. Council members debated extensively. Councilwoman Easter Thomas opposed the location, citing environmental racism and a lack of a greater vision. Councilman Carlisle questioned feasibility of other developments and noted this is the highest and best use currently. Councilman Smiley moved to hold the item to March 5, 2024, to allow a community meeting and site visits. The motion passed 12-1 (Easter Thomas dissenting).
• Item 4 – Plan Development at 2868 Morning Sun Road (PD 23-26): The item was held from January 23. Councilwoman Logan described amendments negotiated with the community, including conditions for a traffic study, potential traffic signal, and drainage requirements. DPD confirmed the amendments. The council approved the plan development as amended unanimously.
• Item 7 – Reappointment of Public Works Director Robert Connect: Mayor Young introduced Connect, praising his leadership during recent storms. Multiple council members spoke in support, citing his responsiveness, institutional knowledge, and green initiatives (solar, great water). Councilman Spinoza moved to approve with same-night minutes; the motion passed unanimously. A public comment in opposition from Jerumberg Workers regarding a 2017 sewer dispute and alleged conflict of interest was noted but not acted upon.
• Item 12 – Resolution to amend MLGW utility assistance program: Moved by Councilman Spinoza, seconded by Carlisle, passed unanimously.

Key Outcomes

• Item 1 – Resolution honoring Sarah L. Lewis: Passed by acclamation.
• Item 3 (1230 N Watkins): Held until March 5, 2024, for further community outreach and council due diligence. No vote on the substance.
• Item 4 (2868 Morning Sun): Approved as amended unanimously.
• Item 7 – Reappointment of Robert Connect: Approved with same-night minutes (unanimous).
• Item 8 – Appointment of Sakita Johnson as City Court Clerk: Approved with same-night minutes (unanimous).
• Item 12 – Utility assistance amendment: Approved unanimously.
• Items 13-16 – Appointments to MATA, Board of Ethics, Health Education Housing Facility Board, and Pension Board: All approved with same-night minutes (unanimous).
• Consent items (2,5,6): Approved unanimously.

The meeting adjourned after general public comments.