Public Meetings - Memphis, Tennessee

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 10:15 AM. The meeting covered a wide range of items including resolutions honoring community figures, land use permits, fiscal consent items for Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), an ordinance regarding artificial intelligence property (XAI facility), and public comments on transportation, library worker protections, and municipal accountability. Several items were approved, with notable amendments and discussions. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Resolution honoring the life of Reverend Dr. Herbert Brewster Sr. and the 100th anniversary of Brewster Theological Seminary. Approved by acclamation. - Item 3: Resolution approving closure of a 400-foot portion of a public alley between South Third Street and Barton Street. Approved unanimously. - Item 4: Special use permit at 4465 Poplar Avenue (case PD 25-06). Approved with conditions. Councilman Carlisle recused due to a family financial conflict. - Item 5: Special use permit at 436 South Front Street (case SUP 25-11). Approved unanimously. - Items 11–18 (MLGW Fiscal Consent): Resolutions approving contracts and renewals, including voice/data services ($518,840), EMS SCADA ($5,510,660), wireless maintenance ($1,110,000), material storage building ($6,378,900), on-call consulting ($1,063,602), service center repaving ($786,260.85), security enhancements ($1,221,330), and customer communication ($2,286,500). All approved unanimously. - Items 7–9 (Consent Agenda): Engineering plans for Woodlands Plan Development Phase One, honorary street name changes on South Bellevue Boulevard and for BJWT 7. All approved unanimously. - Items 10 & 32 (Fiscal Consent): Grant funds from the state ($430,500) and ARPA interest revenue allocation. Approved unanimously. - Items 26–34 (Add-ons): Resolutions including use of Accelerate Memphis bond interest, consolidated plan approval, solid waste vehicle financing ($5.1 million), drainage channel lining funds ($987,940.67), federal grant for Democrat Road signal ($2,761,321), bridge repair funds ($77,353), ARPA interest revenue ($1,900,000), and request for Shelby County Land Bank properties for the Building Home Program. All approved unanimously; Councilman White recused on item 34. Public Comments & Testimony - MATA Transit Issues: Noah Nordstrom (6224 As Grove Dr) described his experience as a full-time MATA rider, citing over 20-minute delays, missed buses, and the burden on low-income residents. He challenged council members to ride the bus. Randy Trong (37 S Rembrandt St) reported waiting two hours for a bus that never came and highlighted risks for undocumented residents who rely on buses for protection. Both urged full funding of MATA. - XAI/Data Center Ordinance (Item 20): Jasmine Bernard (5074 Cana Rd) and Cergen (1058 Madison Ave) criticized the ordinance for excluding the Whitehaven facility (two-lane location) and demanded 100% of property tax revenue be directed to affected communities, no $100 million cap, and a community advisory board. Councilwoman Cooper Sutton noted the Whitehaven location was added to Exhibit A. Sarah Houston (1910 Madison Ave, Protect Our Aquifer) supported the ordinance but expressed disappointment that the 75% amendment failed. Kimberly Owens Pearson (1110 Starline) voiced anger over environmental harms in Westwood and the lack of community input. - Library Workers: Four library employees (Emiline Rogers, Samara Solomon, Laura Bontrager, David Christie) requested reclassification from appointed to civil service status to gain job protections and the option to unionize. They emphasized the essential public services they provide and the insecurity of appointed positions. - Other: Marvis M. Rogers (3059 Victoria Park) described denial of a pothole damage claim due to the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act. Sybil Presley (1056 Linden Ave) raised confusion about road maintenance responsibilities on Elvis Presley Boulevard. Celeste Grimaldi (8342 Trondheim Dr) called for a city resolution condemning federal actions. Paul Brooks (6301 Village Rose) criticized unequal development in black communities. Janice Mundy (2509 Extra Ave) demanded a forensic audit of MATA and questioned $600,000 in consulting fees. Alexis Agnew (4321 E Lane Ave) supported library workers and suggested new construction incentives for EV chargers, water bottle stations, and green spaces. Joe Kent (511 Flamingo) requested a detailed readout of Accelerate Memphis spending and criticized MATA transparency. Discussion Items - Item 19 (Transit Funding Ordinance): Third reading of an ordinance to amend funding dedicated to transit and mobility. Moved by Councilman Ford Sr. and approved unanimously. Public comments on MATA reliability were heard before the vote. - Item 20 (Artificial Intelligence Property Ordinance): Ordinance providing for allocation of tax revenue from AI property (XAI facility) to public purposes. Extensive discussion and amendments: - Councilwoman Walker proposed an amendment (special item 1) to allocate 1% of the 25% public purpose fund for education and environmental sustainability. Mayor Young expressed support. The amendment passed 12-0 (Councilman Carlisle recused based on earlier recusal? Actually item 4 recusal; item 20 vote later showed all yes). - Councilwoman Cooper Sutton proposed an amendment to increase the public purpose allocation from 25% to 75% and establish an advisory board. The amendment failed for lack of a second. Later, she moved to add an advisory board via resolution, which was accepted by the council. The ordinance as amended (with Walker's amendment) passed unanimously. - Public commenters raised concerns about exclusion of Whitehaven facility (later added), cap of $100 million, and need for stronger community oversight. Key Outcomes - Item 20 (Ordinance 5953): Passed unanimously as amended, including the 1% set-aside for education/environmental sustainability. The council agreed to create a resolution for an advisory board to oversee fund allocation. - Library Worker Reclassification: Multiple public comments requested council action. No immediate vote, but council members acknowledged the issue; no decision recorded. - MATA Funding: No specific vote on increased funding, but public comments highlighted systemic issues. - Same Night Minutes: Approved for items 7, 8, 9, 10, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, and 34 (Councilman White recused on 34). - Adjournment: Motion passed after public comments. Additional Notes - Councilman Carlisle recused from item 4 (special use permit) due to a family member's financial conflict. - Councilman White recused from item 34 (Shelby County Land Bank properties) as special counsel for the Shelby County Commission. - The meeting included a roll call, adoption of August 5, 2025 minutes, and recognition of the chaplain of the day.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on August 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meeting included approval of minutes, recognition of Black Business Month, honorary street namings, recognition of the Greater Memphis Chamber, approval of consent agenda items, and several public comments on library worker reclassification, tax revenue allocation for AI data centers, towing regulations, road conditions, and neighborhood nuisances. All agenda items were approved, with several items held over to future dates. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 22, 2025): Corrected item 14 to reflect approval as amended; all members added as co-sponsors. Approved unanimously. - Items 7–11 (Consent Agenda): Included second reading of ordinances 5952, 5953, 5954 (zoning and engineering), acceptance of public improvements, and bond releases. Councilwoman White recused herself from item 9. Approved unanimously. - MLGW Fiscal Consent (Items 12–25): Included contract changes, purchase orders, and emergency awards for various MLGW and city services. Approved unanimously. - Items 32–33: Item 32 (cost-sharing agreement with Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority for sewer improvements) – discussed under Discussion Items; Item 33 (sale of 924 Thomas Street to Young Actors Guild) – approved unanimously. - Items 30–31: Item 30 (appropriation of $7,250,000 for Southwest Twin Redevelopment) and Item 31 (additional $261,500 for drainage line repairs) – approved unanimously. - Same Night Minutes: Items 3, 10, 11, 32, and 33 were approved for same-night minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Kimberly Owens Pearson (1110 Starline, Memphis): Opposed the proposed 25% cap on tax revenue from the XAI facility for area 38109, demanding 100% of revenue for the most impacted one-to-three-mile radius. Called for a community advisory board and no cap on funding from billionaires. - Janetta Williams (711 S. Dudley St.): Supported towing ordinance Section 6-88-10A for safety; proposed expanding the MPD rotation system for towing services to reduce administrative burden and ensure fair access. - Sibyl Presley (1056 Linden Ave.): Requested paving of Elvis Presley Boulevard with blue asphalt (two miles on both sides of Graceland) to commemorate Elvis’s blue suede shoes and improve road conditions; urged city to apply for grants and involve citizens in paperwork processes. - C. Yargen (1508 Madison Ave.): Opposed consent agenda item 8 (ordinance allocating AI data center tax revenue) because it did not include the planned XAI facility on Two Lane Road; urged amendment to cover that facility before final reading. - Alexandra Farmer (1044 Bruce St., librarian): Requested reclassification of library workers from appointed employees to civil service employees to gain protections and benefits; noted broad support among library workers. - Emiline Rogers (670 West Dr., library assistant): Supported reclassification, emphasizing that library workers serve as social workers and community anchors, not political appointees. - Tiara Mathis (6680 Century Arbor, library worker): Echoed support for reclassification, stating library workers are social workers, not politicians, and deserve civil service status. - Anthony Lucatelli (1375 Tutweiler Ave., librarian): Noted that library workers are hired by HR, follow same rules as other city employees, but can be fired at will; urged reclassification to civil service. - Devin McGrath (teacher, father): Supported library worker reclassification as essential for community stability and child welfare. - Markela Love (2058 Townsend Ave.): Supported reclassification, citing libraries as community hubs and the need to protect workers. - Paul Williams (711 S. Dudley St., tow business owner): Proposed a city parking authority to increase enforcement revenue (citing Boston’s $83M vs. Memphis’s $2M) and free up police for serious issues; called for collaboration with towing companies. - Alexis Agnew (4321 E Lane): New resident urged council to protect library workers, citing negative experience in another county where protections were weakened. - Joe Kent (511 Flamingo): Criticized MFA taking $415K from Chandler Park, requested deferred maintenance report for parks, criticized MATA and the chamber, and called for less emphasis on sports and more on transit reliability. - Robert Joyce (1886 Lyndale Ave.): Complained about a nuisance property owned by out-of-state investor with code violations, pests, and unruly renters; requested assistance from code enforcement and Rhodes College. - Cards of Opposition: Submitted for item 28 (held to September 9, 2025) from Ethan Edwards, Swathy Shady, John Shicouley, Doug and Mary Ketchum, Nick Scott, and Ronald Caldwell. Discussion Items - Item 32 – Cost-Sharing Agreement with Airport Authority: Director Scott Morgan explained the project involves replacing failing sewers near Charles Baker Airport on Flight Road. The airport requested an alternate sewer connection, which cost more; the airport agreed to pay the additional $354,000. Council clarified there is no cost to the city; the airport is paying for its own connection. Approved unanimously. - Library Worker Reclassification: During public comments, multiple council members (Green, Walker, Easter Thomas) engaged with HR Chief Fonda Fouche and Chief Adams. Councilwoman Green noted that library workers are classified as appointed in the city charter, requiring a charter amendment. Councilwoman Easter Thomas requested a committee discussion on unionization for library workers at the August 19 committee meeting, separate from the compensation study. Councilwoman Cooper Sutton advised library workers to understand the difference between civil service and unionization. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved as listed, including the consent agenda, MLGW fiscal consent, items 30-33, and same-night minutes. - Holds: Item 5 (held until August 19, 2025), Item 26 (held until September 9, 2025), Item 27 (held until September 23, 2025), Item 28 (held until September 9, 2025), Item 29 (held until December 16, 2025), and Item 6 (held for two weeks). - Next Steps: The council will consider library worker reclassification and unionization at the August 19 committee meeting. The HR compensation study for library positions is expected by end of August/early September. Councilwoman Green will work with legal and HR to explore charter amendment options. - Public Comment Follow-up: Councilman Canale indicated he would follow up with Janetta Williams on towing proposal. Councilwoman Green requested legal analysis on library worker classification.

The Memphis City Council met on July 22, 2025, at 10:15 AM. The meeting included a prayer led by Pastor Michael C. Ellis, approval of minutes from July 8, 2025, consideration of several consent and discussion items, and public comments on various community issues. All agenda items were approved, with a few abstentions noted. Consent Calendar - MLGW Fiscal Consent Agenda (Items 7-10): Approved changes to four contracts: electronic bill presentment with Fidelity Information Services ($3,278,191.82), Citrix license support with Logicalis ($495,060), Microsoft support with Crayon Software Experts ($218,257), and security automation with Access Control Integration ($187,000). Motion by Councilman Spinoza, seconded by Swearingin Washington. All members voted yes. - Consent Agenda (Items 4, 5, 6, 15): Approved ordinances and resolutions: funding for transit and mobility (first reading), allocation for AI property, amending zoning for social service institutions (first reading), and honorary street name change for Promised Land Church (same night minutes). Councilwoman White recused on Item 6 due to being special counsel for Shelby County Commission. Motion by Vice Chair Swearingin Washington. All others voted yes. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Special Use Permit at 5536 Summer Avenue: Approved unanimously. The Land Use Control Board and DPD gave positive recommendations. Motion by Vice Chair Swearingin Washington, seconded by Dr. Warren. - Item 2 – Special Use Permit at 60 North Second Street: Approved with abstentions from Councilmembers Cooper Sutton and Warren. DPD recommended rejection, but the Land Use Control Board recommended approval. Dr. Warren commented on the need for public bathrooms at new parking lots. Motion by Vice Chair Swearingin Washington, seconded by Spinoza. - Item 3 – Zoning Reclassification at 2572 Park Avenue: Approved with same night minutes. DPD and Land Use Control Board recommended approval. Third and final reading. Unanimous vote. - Item 13 – Lease for Old Daisy Theater at 323-329 Beale Street: Approved. Lease to Beale Street Development Corporation. Motion by Swearingin Washington, seconded by Easter Thomas. Unanimous. - Item 14 – Resolution on Monthly Transit Reporting: Approved. Sponsored by Councilman Carlisle. Motion by Ford Senior, seconded by Warren. Unanimous. - Items Held: Item 11 was held until August 19, 2025; Item 12 was held until August 5, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Marvus Rogers (3059 Victoria Park Cove): Expressed concerns about unsafe conditions at the recently reconstructed intersection of Frazier Boulevard and Overland Crossing. Stated the project was not a priority for Fraser residents during the Accelerate Memphis process. - Linda Street (4221 Beach Shore Cole): Asked that no city- or county-owned parcels be sold to investors or developers without a community benefit agreement and consultation, citing gentrification and negative impacts on elderly residents (32% of the population in Walker Homes). - Patricia Lee (4511 Bluebell, Memphis Black Agenda): Demanded support for African American homeownership, use of federal funds for down payment assistance, opposition to tax lien sales, and no new jail in New Chicago community. - Catherine Larsha (Tintin Hawthorne Street, Memphis Black Agenda): Demanded amendment of the City Charter to clarify responsibilities to citizens. Opposed the blight remediation policy, calling it anti-citizen. - Damon Curry Morris (1529 Dunmore Road, Memphis Black Agenda): Presented demands from the Memphis Black Agenda, including dissolution of the blight initiative, citing potential economic and cultural harm. Noted a potential conflict of interest with a council member on the board of Habitat for Humanity. - Dr. Carnita Atwater (1098 Firestone, Memphis Black Agenda): Presented the Black Agenda from 23 African American communities, charging genocide and citing 25 signatures and 15,000 questionnaires. - Joe Kent (511 Flamingo): Criticized the council for not caring about transit ridership, MATA spending, and the withholding of a $600,000 forensic audit. Accused the council of wasting money on TransPro. - Chief Andre Matthews: Requested support for Memphis farmers, asking where $3 million designated for the North Memphis food desert in 2022 has gone. Emphasized the need for food security. Key Outcomes - All items on the MLGW fiscal consent, consent agenda, and discussion docket were approved. No votes failed. - Same night minutes were approved for Items 3 and 15. - Councilwoman White recused from Item 6. - Councilmembers Cooper Sutton and Warren abstained on Item 2. - The council acknowledged the last meeting for staff members Ivy Johnson and Alicia Green. - The meeting adjourned after public comments.

The Memphis City Council met on July 8, 2025, for a regular meeting. The session opened with a prayer led by Pastor Darren Thomas II, roll call, and approval of the June 24, 2025, minutes. The council observed moments of silence for fallen first responders (Firefighter Jason Driver and an off-duty firefighter) and victims of Texas flooding, and recognized the deployment of Tennessee Task Force One to assist in rescue efforts. Several routine items were approved on consent, and the council heard a contested appeal regarding a subdivision on South Third Street, which was ultimately held. Public comments addressed MATA operations, the blight remediation ordinance, and concerns about the same subdivision. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – June 24, 2025, council meeting minutes (unanimous). - Item 3 – Zoning ordinance for 2572 Park Avenue (RU-1 to RU-3, second reading) – approved. - Item 4 – Engineering plans for Phillips Farms Plan Development Area 2A Phase 1 – approved. - Item 5 – Accepting public improvements for Legends Park Senior Building and releasing bond – approved. - Items 7–10 (MLGW Fiscal Consent) – Ratification of purchase orders and contract changes for generators, inspection services, software, and employee app – approved. - Item 6 – Acceptance of FY21 grant funds from Shelby County ($26,839.66) – approved (Councilwoman White recused). - Item 25 – Honorary street name change for Lieutenant Jeffrey Todd Norman (Arkansas Street from West Burdock to South Parkway West) – approved by acclamation. - Item 21 – Appointment of Susan Holland as Memphis Animal Services Director – approved. - Item 22 – Appointment of Melanie Neal as Community Enhancement Director – approved. - Item 24 – Resolution approving a one-time bonus of $2,950 for city retirees (as amended, with September 1, 2025, effective date) – approved. - Item 23 – Appointment of Justice Bolden as Memphis Parks Director – approved. - Item 26 – Plan development approval for 1609 Corning Avenue – approved. - Items 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18 – Various resolutions (appointments, land bank authority, surplus property sales, grant fund adjustments) – all approved. - Item 2 – Plan development approval for 2925 Basket Industries – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Ridgeway (address not provided) – Spoke against the MATA funding resolution (Item 19), citing lack of ridership data, inefficient fixed-route buses, and need for expanded on-demand service. He called for public hearings on the forensic audit of MATA. - Amber Sherman (6070 North Belgrove Cove) – Opposed the blight remediation ordinance, stating it allows unannounced interior inspections, uses vague and racially charged definitions (e.g., “urban blight”), criminalizes poverty, and lacks a meaningful appeal process. She urged the council to delete or significantly amend the ordinance. - Winnie Hardaway (4624 Honeysuckle, Memphis) – Expressed concerns about both the subdivision at 4696 South Third Street (Item 1) and the blight ordinance. She argued the applicant’s initial plan for an oil change facility threatens the Save-A-Lot grocery store in a food desert and noted the property lies in a wellhead protection zone. She also echoed opposition to the blight ordinance. Discussion Items - Item 1 (Appeal – 4696 South Third Street) – The council heard an appeal by Dr. Lynette Williams (Aqualina Lakeview Gardens CDC) to overturn the Land Use Control Board’s approval of a resubdivision creating a 0.82-acre lot from the Save-A-Lot property. The applicant (Wesley Wardridge, Renaissance Group) stated the subdivision was intended to help the owner reduce property tax burden and attract customers to the grocery store, with no current use planned. The community feared the lot could be sold for an oil change facility or other incompatible use, threatening the only grocery store in the area. Council members expressed concerns about lack of transparency and potential harm to the neighborhood. The item was held until the September council meeting to allow further negotiation between the community and applicant. Key Outcomes - Items 14 and 15 – Held to August 5, 2025, and October 21, 2025, respectively. - Item 1 – Held until September 2025 council meeting. - All other agenda items were approved by unanimous or near-unanimous votes. - Appointments confirmed: Susan Holland (Animal Services), Melanie Neal (Community Enhancement), Justice Bolden (Parks), and Lynn Fall (Memphis Land Bank Authority – Item 13). - Retiree bonus approved (Item 24) – $2,950 one-time payment, effective September 1, 2025. - Honorary street naming – Arkansas Street segment designated “Lieutenant Jeffrey Todd Norman Street” in honor of the fallen firefighter.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on June 24, 2025, at 10:15 AM. The meeting included a moment of silence for FedEx founder Fred Smith, approval of previous meeting minutes, several resolutions honoring individuals, and votes on ordinances including the joint Building Home Program, pre-K expansion, and creation of a Division of Community Enhancement. The council also approved consent items, fiscal grants, and street closures with amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting (unanimous). - MLGW fiscal consent items 16–24, including extensions and purchase orders for power equipment, trucks, and services, passed unanimously. - Consent agenda items 7–13, including zoning ordinances, public improvement bond releases, and an honorary street name for Coach Terry Tippett, passed unanimously. - Fiscal consent items 14–15 (grant funds from Shelby County for police services) passed unanimously, with Councilwoman White recusing. - Add-on items 31–34 (license plate reader equipment, video wall infrastructure, EMS training grants, police training grant) passed unanimously, with Councilwoman White recusing from items 14–15 and 31–34. Public Comments & Testimony - Five speakers addressed the council on item 27 (Pre-K for All) during the regular agenda. All expressed strong support for expanding pre-K access, citing benefits for children, families, and the economy. Speakers included Robin Mayweather (Executive Director, Red Robins Academy), Aaron Tibbs (parent, Libertas community), Jaden Mosey (new homeowner, family of seven), Ashley Todd (former pre-K educator and cohort lead with First Aid Memphis), and Cicely Sharp (parent of a three-year-old on waitlists). Each urged passage of the joint ordinance. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Resolution honoring MA & Nine civil rights leaders and foot soldiers (Stone Awards 30 Ceremony): Sponsored by Councilwoman Walker, the resolution recognized the July 5, 2025 ceremony in Selma, Alabama. Andrew "Drew" McCraven and Stanley Campbell ("Memphis Footman") spoke, highlighting the link between Selma, Tulsa, and Memphis and the goal of rebuilding Black Wall Streets. Approved by acclamation. - Item 1 – Honorary street name for Rev. John Frank Harris Sr.: Sponsored by Councilwoman Cooper Sutton, the resolution designated West and East Shelby Drive between Horn Lake Road and Hodge Road as "Reverend John Frank Harris Senior Drive." The pastor spoke briefly. Approved by acclamation. - Item 2 – Honoring Lawrence "Boo" Mitchell: Sponsored by Councilwoman Swearingin Washington, the resolution recognized Mitchell's Grammy-winning music production and his role at Royal Studios. Mitchell and his family attended; he thanked the council. Approved by acclamation. - Item 4 – Street closure on Mahana Avenue: The council considered two friendly amendments: (1) allowing temporary closure with a Type III barricade until development, and (2) adding a condition for an easement for the Wolf River Greenway. Councilman Warren thanked the applicant for cooperation. Passed unanimously. - Item 5 – Joint ordinance establishing Memphis and Shelby County Building Home Program (third reading): Councilwoman Easter Thomas introduced amendments to align with changes made by the County Commission (including requiring ordinance amendments to the implementation plan, adding City Council approval for property transfers, and strengthening annual reporting metrics on racial equity). Councilwoman White recused. Passed unanimously (with recusal). - Item 6 – Zoning reclassification for 0 Mount Moriah Extended (third reading): Councilwoman Green noted environmental studies on flooding had been provided. The applicant, Prentice Mitchell, described his small business development goals. Passed unanimously. - Item 26 – Ordinance creating Division of Community Enhancement (third reading): Councilman Warren explained amendments to transfer property maintenance code enforcement to the new division and move short-term rental permitting from Public Works to Planning and Development. Councilwoman White requested an amendment to remove the phrase "as per the attached schedule" from Section 4, clarifying that additional funds and personnel were as approved in the FY2026 budget. The amendment was accepted. Passed unanimously. - Item 27 – Joint ordinance for Pre-K for All (third reading): Sponsored by Councilwoman Swearingin Washington, the ordinance continued the pre-K program. Councilwoman Easter Thomas disclosed her child is in a participating program but not paid. Councilwoman White recused. After public comments, passed unanimously. - Item 30 – Sale of city-owned parcel at 738 Williams Avenue: Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved by acclamation: Resolutions honoring Rev. John Frank Harris Sr., Lawrence "Boo" Mitchell, and the MA & Nine civil rights leaders. - Passed unanimously: Items 4, 6, 26 (as amended), 30, and all consent and fiscal consent items. - Passed with recusals: Item 5 (Building Home Program) and Item 27 (Pre-K for All) – Councilwoman White recused from both. Item 14, 15, and 31–34 also had her recusal. - Housekeeping: Items 25 and 29 held until July 22, 2025; Item 28 withdrawn. - Same night minutes approved for items 9–15 and 31–34 (with Councilwoman White's recusal noted). - Next meeting: The council will meet again on July 22, 2025.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on June 10, 2025, beginning over an hour late. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for Councilman J.B. Smiley Jr.'s father and nephew who died in a tragic incident. The council approved a consent agenda with several routine items, adopted the fiscal year 2026 operating and capital budget after debate, and voted on multiple amendments regarding employee compensation and MATA funding. Public comment featured strong opposition to reductions in transit funding and concerns over impacts from the xAI data center, as well as calls for honoring union impasse agreements and improving youth programs. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous). - Item 1 (PD 25-05): Nine‑unit single‑family development at 751 South Willette Street – approved. - Item 2 (SAC 25-01): Street closure for MLGW North Service Center – approved. - Item 3 (SUP 25-09): Special use permit at 422 James Road – approved. - Item 5: Rezoning 15 acres at 5433 Malone Road from Conservation Agriculture to Employment use – approved after a brief presentation from the applicant. - MLGW Fiscal Consent (items 12‑23): Approved as a block, including change orders, new contracts, and purchase orders (e.g., $2,578,887 for property and boiler insurance with FM Global). - Consent Agenda (items 6,7,8,9,38): Included second readings of ordinances on youth programs, blight remediation, and other matters. Councilwoman White recused on item 8; Dr. Easter Thomas noted a potential interest (child in program). Item 38 (blight ordinance) was introduced for first reading. Approved. - Fiscal Consent item 11: Accepted a donated vehicle and trailer ($179,647) from the Department of Energy for police operations. - Appointments: Scott Beerup and Tanya Fry to the Memphis Alcohol Commission; Eric Ingram to the Land Use Control Board; Kim Cherry, Austin Harrison, and Brandon Ingram to the Land Bank Authority – all approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 39 and MATA Funding: Several speakers urged full funding of MATA at $45 million or more, arguing that the proposed $30 million (with $15 million in reserve) would leave routes unfilled, hurt hourly workers, and increase poverty and pollution. Speakers included Dorothy Connor, Leo Arnold, Christine Todd, Paul Klein, O’Rion Overstreet (Tigers Against Pollution), Glenabah (indigenous representative), Connor Duckworth, and Carter Jurgen. During this period an outburst led to a brief recess. Council later allowed the speakers to address the body. - General Public Comment: Tony Jackson and Winnie Hardaway criticized Councilman Ford for missing a June 7 community meeting and for repeated delays in reopening the Westwood pool. Dr. Kimberly Pearson and Azana Bruce spoke against the xAI data center, citing pollution and health risks. William Edwards called for more city investment in youth programs, noting a 30% unemployment rate among Black youth. Glenda Hicks urged council to ensure checks and balances in budget execution. Discussion Items - Special Item 1 (Group Life & Long‑Term Disability): Amendment to correct tax rates, resulting in $95,000 net savings to the general fund. Passed (unanimous). - Special Item 2 (Animal Services): Unfunded three vacant positions (savings $162,106). Passed (unanimous). - Special Item 3 (MATA Funding): Amendment to move $15,335,000 from MATA’s operating line to a restricted reserve, released only after MATA provides a full financial audit, budget, and operational plan. Passed 10‑1 (Councilwoman Easter Thomas voted no). - Special Item 4 (Employee Minimum Wage): Motion to raise all city employees making less than $40,000/year to that level, effective January 2026, at a half‑year cost of $1.2 million. Failed (2‑9; yes: Green, Spinoza). - Item 39 (FY26 Operating & CIP Budget): After extensive debate and multiple amendments, the substitute resolution for the fiscal year 2026 operating and capital improvement budget was adopted. Key provisions: a 3% salary increase for all employees (effective second half of the year), no tax increase, a task force to study wages and fund balance, and establishment of a restricted reserve for public transit. Vote: 9‑2 (no: Green, Spinoza). - Item 25 (Tax Levy Ordinance): Third reading of the annual appropriation ordinance. Firefighters union representative Thomas Malone urged council to honor the impasse agreement from the previous year that provided 5% raises. Councilman Ford delivered a passionate response criticizing union leadership. The ordinance passed (unanimous). - Item 27 (Tax Bills for State‑Assessed Properties): Approved (unanimous). Key Outcomes - Approved fiscal year 2026 operating and capital budget with a 3% employee salary increase, no tax increase, and a task force to examine wage equity and fund balance. - MATA receives $30 million total: $15 million in operating funds and $15 million in a restricted reserve, with release conditioned on an audit and operational plan. - Motion to immediately raise minimum city salary to $40,000 failed; council committed to revisit the issue in the fall after tax revenue collections. - Councilman Ford pledged to follow up with the Parks Division on the Westwood pool repair timeline. - All same‑night minute items (9,10,11,25,27,32‑37,39) were approved.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on May 20, 2025, beginning with a prayer led by Dr. Reginald Boyce, roll call, and approval of the May 6, 2025 minutes. The council conducted multiple recognitions, debated land use items including a controversial drop yard and a subdivision appeal, and approved the impasse votes for city employee associations. Several resolutions and ordinances were passed, with notable votes on a gas station special use permit, a planned development rejection, and the approval of wage impasse. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of May 6, 2025. - Item 6: Approved closure of an unimproved alley near 610 TM Henderson Avenue (unanimous). - Item 48: Added to consent agenda to consolidate and approve impasse votes for employee associations (unanimous). - Consent agenda (items 10-17, 46, 48) passed with Councilwoman White recusing from items 14 and 46. - Same night minutes approved for items 8, 17, 19, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45. Public Comments & Testimony - Glenda Hicks (co-founder 21st Century Memphis Robust) thanked the council for approving the impasse (item 48) and urged careful review of plans for subdivision entrances, specifically opposing the drop yard on Tulahoma/Shelby Drive. She also raised concerns about budget items. Discussion Items - Honorary Street Naming (Item 1): Resolution approved designating Cincinnati Road between Person Avenue and Dunn Avenue as "Coach Roosevelt Hancock Street." Coach Hancock spoke, thanking the council and highlighting his mentorship. - Central High School Jazz Band Recognition (Item 2): Recognized for winning first place at the Essentially Ellington International Competition. Director Dr. Ollie Liddell thanked the city for financial support. - Top 10 Under 20 Honorees (Item 3): Recognized 10 youth from Memphis Parent Magazine's Impact Award. Christian Love spoke expressing gratitude. - Evolve Pilates Day (Item 47): Recognized May 18, 2025 as Evolve Pilates Day, sponsored by all council districts. - Special Use Permit – Gas Station (Item 5): Debate on a gas station at Mendon Hall and Fox Plaza. DPD recommended rejection due to proximity to residences and existing gas stations. Applicant Eric K. Robinson argued profits fund affordable housing projects, citing prior developments. Councilman Walker expressed concerns about property upkeep. Passed 9-0 after conditions. - Planned Development – Drop Yard (Item 7): Proposed truck drop yard at Shelby Drive and Tulahoma. DPD and Land Use Control Board recommended rejection. Applicant Stephen Christides presented environmental benefits (idle-free parking), security features, and community support letters. Opposition from Councilman Ford, Walker, and residents cited traffic safety, environmental concerns, and landlocking of adjacent property owner. Failed 1-7 (Spinoza yes, others no). - Subdivision Appeal (Item 8): Appeal of Land Use Control Board approval for a two-lot subdivision on Grandview Avenue. Councilman Carlisle recused. Neighbors argued lots would be smallest on street (76% of average size). DPD stated it met criteria within 500-foot radius. Council voted 1-6 (Spinoza yes, others no) to reject the appeal, upholding the subdivision. - Zoning Ordinance (Item 9): Rezoning of 23 acres off Mount Moriah held until June 24, 2025 at applicant's request. - MLGW Fiscal Consent (Items 18-30): Passed on consent, including a $43.8 million contract for private 5G wireless network. - Add-on Items (41-45): Passed, including fire prevention renovation ($806,171), hazard mitigation grant ($4.69 million), hotel-motel tax supplement, and solid waste budget reallocation ($2.4 million). Item 44 debated on vacancy savings; amended presentation provided. - Item 40: Transfer of $500,000 for Hollywood Bridge repair passed. Key Outcomes - Item 5 (Gas Station Special Use Permit): Approved unanimously (9-0) with conditions. - Item 7 (Drop Yard Planned Development): Denied (1-7), with only Councilman Spinoza voting in favor. - Item 8 (Grandview Subdivision Appeal): Appeal rejected (1-6), allowing the subdivision to proceed. - Item 48 (Impasse Votes): Approved unanimously, confirming council support for city employee wage increases and benefits. - Item 43 (Hotel-Motel Tax Supplement): Passed after reconsideration with Councilwoman White recusal. - Same Night Minutes: Approved for multiple items. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for May 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM (budget hearings).

The Memphis City Council convened on May 6, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. with a quorum present. The meeting opened with a prayer by Father Ben Bradshaw, approval of the April 22, 2025 minutes, and adoption of rules of decorum. The council considered multiple resolutions, ordinances, and public comments. Consent Calendar - Items 11–14 (ordinances establishing a downtown parking garage safety program, a joint city-county building home program, an appropriation ordinance for FY2026, and a zoning reclassification at 5433 Malone Road) were approved as a consent agenda with same‑night minutes on item 14. Item 30 (joint city‑county ordinance) was also added to the consent agenda. Councilmember White recused from item 30. - Fiscal consent agenda (items 15–17): donations and grant acceptances were approved with same‑night minutes. - MLGW fiscal consent agenda (items 18–25): various contract approvals and purchase orders were approved with same‑night minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 8 (truck drop yard at Shelby Drive): Mary Donald (3183 Blue Bonnet Road) opposed the project, citing traffic safety, risk of unwanted activity, and lack of community benefit. She noted a land‑use control board member who lives in the area voted against it. Stevon Johnson (4766 Born Shelby Drive) echoed opposition, citing traffic accidents, speed violations, and skepticism about community amenities. Councilman Walker expressed opposition but requested a hold to review data on cargo theft and idling trucks. - General comments: Catherine Crichton Smith (Angeles Street) described safety and nuisance issues from a short‑term rental next door. Gretchen Larson (424 Angeles Street) criticized the current short‑term rental ordinance enforcement and called for stricter regulations. Joe Kent criticized the zoo funding, MATA transit management, and requested an update on the MATA forensic audit. Glenda Hicks raised concerns about the budget deficit and urged no tax increases or fee hikes. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Resolution recognizing Davin and Kellen Bartosh (Wiseacre Brewing Company): Approved by acclamation. - Item 2 – Resolution recognizing teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week: Councilwoman Easter Thomas read the resolution and named 13 teachers. The resolution was adopted. - Item 3 – Street dedication on Sandbrook Street and Stonebrook Avenue: Approved unanimously. - Item 5 – Special use permit at 611 East Cadraca Drive: Approved unanimously. - Item 6 – Special use permit at 5205 Winchester Road: Staff recommended rejection, but the applicant (small business owner) presented updated plans. Councilmembers expressed support for giving the applicant a chance. The item passed with 11 yes votes (Cooper Sutton and Carlisle also yes, but not shown on initial screen; recast vote confirmed passage). - Item 7 – Planned development at 2899 Lamar Avenue: Approved unanimously. - Item 8 – Planned development at East Shelby Drive (truck drop yard): Staff had recommended rejection; applicant added a community garden and food truck park. Public comments opposed; Councilman Smiley noted support from a nearby pastor. Councilman Walker requested a hold for further data. The hold was granted without objection (two weeks). - Item 9 – Zoning reclassification at Zero Mount Moriah: Third and final reading. Motion passed initially, but Councilman Logan later changed her vote to no, which altered the outcome. Councilman Smiley moved to hold until the next meeting; the hold was approved by acclamation after discussion with Attorney Wade about reconsideration procedures. - Item 10 – Zoning reclassification on East Shelby Drive near Lamar Avenue: Approved. - Add‑on items 27–29: Resolutions for fund transfers, budget amendment, and council community grant allocations were all approved with same‑night minutes. Key Outcomes - Votes: Items 3, 5, 7, 10, consent agendas, and add‑on items passed with near‑unanimous support (item 6 also passed after recast). - Holds: Item 8 held until May 20, 2025; item 9 held until the next council meeting (reconsideration process). - Same‑night minutes: Approved for items 14, 15, 16, 17, 27, 28, 29. - Public feedback: Multiple speakers requested stronger regulation of short‑term rentals and voiced opposition to the Shelby Drive truck drop yard. Councilman Smiley offered to assist with documenting short‑term rental violations. - Next steps: Council will revisit the held items at future meetings.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on April 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meeting opened with a prayer led by Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, followed by a surprise resolution honoring him. After roll call and approval of minutes from April 8, 2025, the council addressed multiple resolutions, two land use appeals, consent agenda items, and public comments. Key votes included approval of a parking lot extension, a rezoning for a Tractor Supply store, and a hold on a subdivision appeal. Consent Calendar - Resolution honoring Virginia Wilson (Item 1) for 23 years of service, including as Executive Director of the Police Advisory Review Committee. Approved by acclamation. - Resolution designating April as Donate Life Month (Item 2) – approved by acclamation. - Resolution recognizing Dr. William E. Arnold Jr. (Item 4) for criminal justice reform and re-entry advocacy. Approved by acclamation. - Honorary street naming for George Edward Falls Jr. (Item 3) at Island Drive between A.W. Willis and Harbortown Circle North. Approved by acclamation. - Consent agenda items 9 and 10 (second reading of zoning ordinance and bond release for Hyatt Centric) – approved. - MLGW Fiscal Consent Agenda (Items 11-28) – approved unanimously, including contracts for Tripwire, HDR Engineering, Rotolo Consultants, and purchase orders for trucks. - Items 35, 36, 37, 32, 33, 34 – all approved by majority votes, including sewer budget amendment, animal shelter board appointments, community grant allocation amendment, housing summit sponsorships, Taste of Memphis revenue, and Sam Cooper bridge CEI costs. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Appeal of subdivision at 4014 Grandview Avenue: Appellants sought reversal of Land Use Control Board’s approval of a two-lot subdivision. Arguments centered on lot size compatibility, petition signatures (21 of 73 notified households opposed, 13 of 17 on Grandview), and a failed compromise. After debate, Councilman Smiley moved to hold the item until May 20, 2025, with no objection. The chair noted the council would vote at that meeting without further presentation. - Item 6 – Appeal for time extension of surface parking lot at 180 South Main Street: Appellant Ron Belts sought reversal of Land Use Control Board’s denial of a five-year extension. Multiple downtown business owners (Dinstuhl’s Candies, Lansky’s, Orpheum Theater, Majestic Grill) spoke in support, citing convenience, aesthetics, and safety. Judge Bernice Donald also argued for approval. The council voted 12-1 to approve the extension, with Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper Sutton voting no. - Item 8 – Rezoning of 7.24 acres on Stage Road from Conservation Agricultural to Commercial Mixed Use (third reading): For a proposed Tractor Supply store. Staff and LUCB recommended approval. Councilwoman Rhonda Logan commended the applicant for community engagement. Councilman Chase Carlisle recused himself due to a family relationship with the land seller. The ordinance passed with Dr. Jeff Warren recused. Public Comments - Joe Kent (511 Flamingo) criticized the Memphis Zoo’s management fee ($1.2 million) and questioned zoo foundation transparency. He also complained about the downtown crime command center and called for a forensic audit of MATA. The chair responded that the audit results would be presented to the Transportation Committee when complete. Key Outcomes - Item 5 held until May 6, 2025 (next regular meeting). Council instructed parties to negotiate; no further presentations will be heard. - Item 6 approved (12-1), granting a time extension for the parking lot. - Item 8 approved (11-0-1 recusal), rezoning for Tractor Supply. - All consent items, MLGW items, and same-night minutes approved. - Appointments to Memphis Animal Shelter Advisory Board (Barbara A. Britton, Tory P. Eves, Fabiola Francis, Elizabeth Smith) approved. - Meeting adjourned after public comments.