Public Meetings - Memphis, Tennessee

The meeting was scheduled for March 25, 2025 at 10:45 UTC. However, no agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided. As a result, no summary of specific topics, discussions, decisions, or public comments can be generated.

The Memphis City Council met on March 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meeting included a moment of silence for Pastor Ricky Floyd, recognition of community leaders, a contentious vote on a property sale related to XAI, and approval of numerous resolutions and ordinances. The council heard extensive public testimony and debated environmental and community concerns. Consent Calendar - Approved the February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (Councilwoman Cooper Sutton abstained). - Approved items 4–13 (first and second readings of ordinances, zoning changes, and engineering plans) on the consent agenda. Items included the Cleveland Street Corridor Redevelopment Trust Fund, vacant property fee amendments, hotel occupancy tax increase, and two engineering resolutions. - Approved MLGW fiscal consent items 19–25 (purchase orders for transformers, regulators, meters, and a new attorney salary). - Approved fiscal consent items 16–18 (grants from Bloomberg Center, Memphis Fire Department Foundation, and Memphis Shelby County Schools). - Approved item 26 (transfer of IT funds), item 27 (transfer for new Fraser Library), item 28 (Cleveland Street Corridor redevelopment with Councilwoman White recused), item 29 (FedEx Forum grant transfer), item 30 (City Hall improvements allocation), and item 31 (Overton Park sculpture relocation). - Approved same-night minute items 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 24, 30, and 31. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Houston (Protect Our Aquifer) urged a pause on data center developments and greater local oversight. She expressed support for a water recycling facility but opposed rushed deals with XAI. - Amber Sherman asked the council to vote no until designs are reviewed by the Land Use Control Board, citing community voice being ignored. - Larise Smith called for more due diligence on transactions with Elon Musk/XAI, including environmental impact analyses and scrutiny of Musk’s business practices. - Kelsey Hughes (software engineer turned city planning student) warned that XAI's promises (wastewater plant, jobs, tax revenue) mask long-term risks like increased aquifer drawdown, job elimination via AI, and pollution from gas turbines. - Haley Thomas argued that XAI’s history (late utility payments, tax avoidance) shows disregard for the community and urged transparency. - Kimberly Davis (Southwest Memphis resident) asked to deny the sale until proper review, noting high cancer and asthma rates in the area. - Christine Fox (Memphis Community Against Pollution) implored the council to deny the sale until designs are reviewed. - Keyshawn Pearson called for a pause, stating the community has been excluded from decisions since XAI began operations. - Richard Massey highlighted that 50% of polluting facilities are in South Memphis and criticized allowing a “white nationalist billionaire” to pollute unchecked. - Glenda Hicks (public comment) raised concerns about MLGW contracts with Honeywell and urged thorough research. - Commissioner Brittany Thornton (county commission) requested later hours (until 8 PM) for the Orange Mound Library to improve access for working professionals. - Gilbert Barnes Carter III supported XAI safeguards and urged legislative changes to require public appearances before the council. Discussion Items - Item 15 – Sale of 2685 Plant Road ($820,000): The administration requested approval for the sale of a city-owned parcel to support a water recycling facility for XAI. Councilwoman Cooper Sutton noted community opposition and urged colleagues to pause. Councilwoman Walker expressed support for the sale but stressed the need for accountability and safety information. Councilwoman White criticized the process, stating community questions remain unanswered and that the council should not ignore constituents. After public comments, the item passed 9-1-1 (Carlisle, Easter Thomas, Green, Spinoza, Swearingin Washington, Walker, Warren, White, Chairman Canale yes; Cooper Sutton no; Logan abstained). - Item 14 – Sale of Zero Dexter Road ($280,000): Attorney Wade explained that the property was formerly intended for a fire station. The council received two other bids but deemed them non-conforming. The sale to Rockwood LLC was approved on second reading. - Recognition of Pastor Ricky Floyd: The council held a moment of silence and allowed members to express condolences following his murder on March 12, 2025. - Recognition of Vanessa Ford Sane: The council honored her 42 years of service and work with seniors (Orange Mound Energizers). Approved by acclamation. - Recognition of Women in Elected Office: Councilman Smiley and Mayor Young recognized women serving on the Memphis City Council, Shelby County Commission, and Memphis-Shelby County School Board. Approved by acclamation. - Honorary Street Name for Mario Bradley: A portion of Beacon Hill Drive was renamed “Mario ‘Grove Hero’ Bradley Way” for his philanthropy and neighborhood revitalization. Approved by acclamation. Key Outcomes - Item 15 passed (9-1-1): Sale of property to enable XAI water recycling facility, despite community concerns. - All consent agenda items passed (unanimous or with minor abstentions/recusals). - Item 14 passed (unanimous): Sale of Dexter Road to Rockwood LLC. - Recognition resolutions and street naming approved by acclamation. - Same-night minutes approved (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned after public comment period.

[Introductory paragraph summarizing the overall meeting.] The Memphis City Council met on February 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meeting included resolutions honoring a local educator, approving a planned development and building code updates, authorizing the sale of city-owned parcels (including one tied to XAI/Elon Musk), adopting consent and fiscal consent agendas, and adjusting budgets. Public comments raised concerns about transit funding, ethics complaints, and MLGW contracts. All votes were unanimous except for one item. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from February 4, 2025, meeting (passed unanimously). - Consent agenda (items 6-8, 26-27): acceptance of public improvements, engineering plans for an indoor event venue, honorary street name change, neighborhood parking permit ordinance (first reading), and alcoholic beverage code amendments (first reading) – passed unanimously. - Fiscal consent item 28: resolution to appropriate $1,835,730 in FEMA deployment revenue – passed unanimously. - MLGW fiscal consent (items 9-18): approvals for contract changes, new contracts, and a ratifications including a $13.8 million emergency meter repair contract with Utility Partners of America – passed unanimously. - Same night minutes (items 6,7,8,20,21,22,25,28) – passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Massey (3615 Central Ave) criticized Elon Musk and XAI, alleging lack of public hearings, environmental harm, and backroom deals; urged the council to slow down. - Pamela Moses (2383 Jackson) echoed concerns about XAI permits and the lack of transparency; accused the council of conspiracy and rushed decisions, referencing smart meter issues. - Glenda Hicks (608 Gillies) opposed the XAI land sale, stating the process disrespects the council and citizens; called it a “sellout.” - Joan Harp (178 South Grove Park Rd) questioned the transparency of the XAI deal and the low sale price ($800,000); requested public hearings. - Sarah Houston (Protect Our Aquifer) supported cautious progress, noting the $800,000 sale includes a reversion clause that gives Memphis oversight; highlighted water usage concerns and the need for community policing. - Joan Harp (second appearance) criticized the FY25 second quarter budget adjustment, questioning spikes in outside postage and lack of oversight. - Leo Arnold (Immediate past chair, Memphis Interfaith Coalition) advocated for increased transit funding, citing one in five households without a car and business losses due to unreliable transit. - Gisela Guerrero (Better Transit for Better Memphis Coalition) supported the $5 million transportation budget adjustment but called for a transit rider advisory council and investigation of MATA spending. - Thomas Nolan yielded time; not used. - Gerald Pierce (499 South Hollywood) requested a new job classification for police radio technicians whose duties have expanded. - Nicholas Nibley (IBEW) supported Pierce’s request. - Glenda Hicks (second appearance) criticized the MLGW emergency meter repair contract (UPA), stating the work should be done by Memphis workers and the “emergency” extension is unjustified. - Antoine Maxwell (5198 Memphis) submitted an ethics complaint against Fire Chief Gita Swebb, alleging discrimination, favoritism, and retaliation; urged investigation. - Joan Harp (third appearance) raised a sidewalk repair notice issue, claimed it violates state law, then the meeting adjourned. - Pamela Moses (second appearance) criticized the MLGW vote for being rushed and lacking public input; threatened legal action over same-night minutes. Discussion Items - Resolution honoring Adrian Macklin (Item 1): Recognized Cordova High School choir director and 2025 Grammy Music Educator Award recipient. Adopted by acclamation. - Planned Development at 3763 Jackson Ave (Item 2): Approved with amendments to landscaping and fencing along Villa Drive and Gregg Avenue. Passed unanimously. - Building Code Amendments (Items 3-5): Adopted 2018 International Energy Conservation Code, amended International Building Code, and adopted 2021 International Residential Code to comply with state law. Items 3-5 passed unanimously. - Sale of City-Owned Parcel at 2685 Plant Road (Item 25): Approved sale for $820,000. Property adjacent to XAI facility. Public speakers opposed lack of public involvement; support from Protect Our Aquifer with conditions. Passed unanimously. - Transportation Commission Term Amendment (Item 19): Ordinance 5928 amending term of service on Memphis Transportation Commission. Passed unanimously. - Meeting Dates Amendment (Item 20): Ordinance 5932 amending 2025 council meeting dates. Passed unanimously. - FY25 Second Quarter Budget Adjustment (Item 21): $185,569.20 to fund three inadvertently excluded full-time positions. Passed unanimously. - Transportation Budget Adjustment (Item 22): $5 million for MATA. Public comment supportive but called for oversight. Passed with one no vote (Councilmember Spinoza). - Sale of Parcel at Zero Dexter Road (Item 24): Approved sale for $280,000. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and ordinances passed unanimously, except Item 22 (transportation budget) which passed 11–1 (Spinoza no). - Councilmember Warren requested a future report on how previous pilot funding designated for MATA has been spent. - Councilmember Green committed to follow up with Gerald Pierce on the police radio technician job classification. - The meeting was adjourned after public comments.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on February 4, 2025. After opening remarks, prayer, roll call, and approval of the January 21, 2025 minutes, the council acted on zoning ordinances, development permits, real-estate matters, MLGW contracts, appointments, and multiple resolutions. No written agenda or minutes were provided, so this summary is based solely on the meeting transcript. Ceremonial Items - Councilwoman Walker opened Black History Month with a reflection and welcomed Anise Robinson, who performed 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' - The council approved by acclamation a resolution honoring Parker Nia Gordon, a Memphis illustrator and character designer whose children's book collaboration with NBA player Jason Tatum received national attention (including on Jimmy Kimmel Live and in Sports Illustrated). Consent Calendar - Meeting minutes of January 21, 2025 were adopted. - General consent items (Items 7–15) were approved, including second-reading ordinances, final plat approval for Alliance Crisis Youth Center for Well-Being, engineering plans for SCFL Memphis East Homes Road, and bond acceptances/releases for UTHSC/Lean Station and Gray's Creek Apartments. - MLGW fiscal consent items (Items 16–28) were approved. Among the amounts cited: $984,660 for Mid-South Engineering Consultants; $28,822,252.17 for Equix Energy Services LLC; $34,699 for Fair Force LLC; $849,600 for ten 200-kW generators; $8,800,000 for water services; $221,292.12 for Grinder Tabber and Grinder Inc.; $222,621 for a 750-kW generator; $233,694.69 for SSP Innovations; $81,422.62 for Exit LLC; $270,782.68 for a natural gas filter separator; and $90,000 for Horton and Associates of Memphis. The consent agenda also included second amendments to natural gas supply agreements with the Public Energy Authority of Kentucky. - Same-night minutes were approved for Items 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 29, 30, 33, 34, 35, and 36. Public Comments & Testimony - Dennis Clark, from Arlington, Tennessee, asked the council for guidance on obtaining the Nathan Bedford Forrest statue, saying he and family members with mixed racial heritage are descendants/relatives and would like to place the statue in Shelby County. Chairman Canale offered to speak with him after the meeting. - Pamela Moses (2383 Jackson) opposed what she described as a 'trillion dollar infrastructure project' and 'back room deals brokered by the chamber of commerce.' She supported Councilwoman White's 'least leasing' proposal, said 'Memphis is not for sale,' threatened legal action involving Mr. Musk and what she called 'TBA,' and criticized Councilmember Smiley's absence. She also said Memphis residents can have their lights cut off for unpaid utility bills while people not from here are welcomed without paying. - Sheree Hoffman, an attorney and approved Memphis Animal Services dog foster, said spay/neuter enforcement and shelter collaboration are failing. She said sterilization should be mandatory on a first violation rather than a second, noted a distemper outbreak led to 100 dog euthanizations, and called for meetings among the rescue community, mayor's office, city council, and Memphis Animal Services. - Fabiola Francis urged the council to get involved in stray-dog issues, saying the city cannot blame previous administrations. She cited spay costs ($185 for 0–20 lb, $205 for 21–40 lb), a $55 Humane Society voucher, and a three-month wait list, and called for communication and transparency. - Joe Kent (111 Flamingo) criticized past council and county commission oversight of what he called 'matter' issues, expressed support for Emily Greer and John Lewis, and suggested 'what would Jesus do?' would be to go to the sports authority for recurring 'matter' funding. He also criticized organizations such as Moore for Memphis. Discussion Items - Item 2: Resolution approving a planned development near the Racket Club, on Sanderland Avenue, Wheelis Drive, and White Station Road (PD 24-14), approved. Councilman Carlisle recused. - Item 4: Resolution approving closure of a paper alley approximately 126.8 feet east of Central Avenue/South Cooper Street (SAC 24-06), approved. Councilman Carlisle recused. - Item 6: Ordinance 5925 (third/final reading) deleting a section of the White Station Residential Corridor Overlay (RC24-02), approved as amended. Planning staff explained the amendment limited the deletion to the south side of Wheelis Drive. Councilman Carlisle recused. - Item 5: Resolution approving a special use permit at 1344 East Shelby Drive (SUP 24-44), with amendments requiring landscaping, building repairs, sign compliance, fencing, LED lighting, security cameras, and other conditions; approved. - Item 36: Resolution approving a special use permit at 2401 Harbor Avenue (SUP 24-45), after a community meeting in favor; approved. - Item 29: Ordinance 5926 (third/final reading) adding provisions on deadly weapons and extreme protection orders; approved as amended. - Item 30: Ordinance 5927 (third/final reading) naming the Ed Rice Community Center pool for Ossi Lewis Jr.; approved. - Item 32: Resolution approving the sale of a parcel at 272 to Kobe Avenue for $3,000; approved. - Item 33: Resolution transferring $600,624 from completed CIP projects to FY25 project PK04020 for Westwood pool repairs (District 6, Super District 8); approved. - Item 34: Appointment of Courtney Melton Fant to the Health Education and Housing Facility Board; approved. - Item 35: Resolution authorizing the city to hire a special attorney, pursuant to Ordinance 5294, to file suit regarding extraordinary litigation; approved. Key Outcomes - All agenda items brought to a vote were approved. Voting was favorable among all voting members; Councilman Carlisle recused from Items 2, 4, and 6. No vote totals were announced in the transcript. - Item 3 was held to February 18, 2025, and Item 31 was held to August 5, 2025. - Same-night minutes were approved for 14 items. - No further formal actions were taken beyond the approvals and the public-comment follow-up offered to Mr. Clark.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on January 21, 2025, with a quorum present. The meeting opened with a prayer by Reverend Orinda W. Hawkins Brinkley, the chaplain of the day, and the approval of the January 7, 2025 meeting minutes. Key actions included the unanimous confirmation of Chief CJ Davis as permanent police chief, approval of a special use permit for a homeless family housing hub, and several consent agenda items. The council also recognized local youth and community leaders. Honors & Recognitions - The council presented a proclamation to the winners of the My Memphis Poetry Challenge, sponsored by Big Memphis and the Office of Youth Services, celebrating youth creativity and positivity. - A resolution honoring the Melrose High School football team for their state championship run was adopted unanimously. Coaches and players spoke about overcoming adversity and their vision for community impact. - Director of Parks Nick Walker was honored for his eight years of service, with council members praising his transformative work on parks and public spaces. Discussion Items - Appointment of Chief CJ Davis: Councilman Warren motioned to remove the appointment from the table, which passed unanimously. Chairman Canale then moved for permanent appointment. Council members Green, White, Cooper Sutton, Walker, and others spoke in support, acknowledging improvements in crime reduction, morale, and transparency while noting the need to address concerns raised in the DOJ report regarding treatment of youth and people with disabilities. The motion passed 13-0. Mayor Young also pledged continued partnership on public safety. - Special Use Permit (SUP 24-46): A resolution approving a special use permit at 4055/4025 Poplar Avenue and 4007/3950 Central Avenue passed unanimously. - Special Use Permit (SUP 24-42) – Hub for Homeless Families: The council approved a special use permit at 777 Firestone Avenue for a “hub” to house homeless families. Councilwoman Easter Thomas highlighted community engagement resulting in amendments (cottage units with kitchens/bathrooms). Council members Logan, Cooper Sutton, Walker, and Chairman Canale spoke passionately about the project’s importance, noting the lack of family shelter options and the need to reactivate the area. The item passed unanimously as amended. - Riverfront Park Maintenance Funding (Item 25): A resolution appropriating $250,000 for riverfront park improvement and maintenance passed 12-1 (Smiley abstained). Public speaker Joe Kent criticized the Memphis Riverfront Partnership’s financial management, citing large unearned revenue and interest expenses, and urged rejection of the appropriation. - MLGW Energy Conservation Notice: MLGW President Doug McGowan addressed the council, requesting customers conserve energy between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. on January 22 due to a polar blast and expected record demand from TVA. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of January 7, 2025. - MLGW Fiscal Consent (Items 15-22): Including change orders and purchase orders for pollution control, IT support, software licensing, poles, cables, and grounds maintenance; all passed unanimously. - Fiscal Consent (Items 13-14): Grant acceptance from Shelby County for police services and drug control policy; both passed unanimously. - General Consent Agenda (Items 6-12 & 27): Included first and second readings of ordinances on transportation commission term limits, meeting date amendments, deadly weapons/extreme protection orders, pool naming, and building code updates. Councilman Carlisle recused himself from Item 12 (financial conflict). All passed. Public Comments & Testimony - Chet Kibble (Director, Memphis & Shelby County Lead Safe Collaborative) spoke about widespread lead exposure in Memphis, criticizing MLGW’s denial of the problem and citing research linking lead to brain damage and behavioral issues. He urged the council to address the crisis. - Joe Kent (511 Mingo) criticized the council for lack of oversight of MATA, stating that $60 million in COVID funds were squandered. He demanded the council investigate MATA’s financial management and help with public information requests. Councilwoman Green responded that MATA is scheduled to present quarterly financials on February 4, 2025. Key Outcomes - Permanent appointment of Chief CJ Davis: approved 13-0. - Special use permit for homeless family hub (777 Firestone Ave): approved unanimously as amended. - All consent items and resolutions passed with broad support (several unanimous, one abstention on Item 25). - Same-night minutes approved for Items 13, 14, 18, and Special Item 2. - Councilwoman Green committed to a transportation committee presentation from MATA on February 4, 2025.

The Memphis City Council held its regular meeting on January 7, 2025, at 10:15 AM. After invocation and roll call establishing a quorum, the council approved minutes from December 17, 2024, and recognized the new Council Chair, Chairman Canale, and outgoing Chair Councilman Smiley. The agenda included numerous land‑use decisions, consent items, public safety recognitions, and resolutions on funding and policy. Public comments addressed community nonprofit support and concerns about the MLGW Share the Pennies program. Consent Calendar - Items 3 and 4 were initially scheduled to be held until February 4, 2025 after a motion to withdraw the hold failed (the motion would have kept them on the current agenda; a majority voted against, sending them to February 4). - Item 9 and Item 12 held until January 21, 2025. - MLGW fiscal consent agenda (Items 19‑25) – approved: contracts for landfill services ($777,600), pump station motor ($224,317), utility payment center renewal ($239,172), flower‑planting maintenance renewal ($92,735), Bridgewater consulting extension ($84,694), and two Bell & Howell maintenance renewals ($36,640 and $138,490). - City Council consent agenda (Items 11, 14, 15) – approved (Councilman Carlisle recused). Item 11 (first reading of an ordinance on deadly weapons and extreme protection orders) was noted to have all council members added as sponsors. Item 14 (Chick‑fil‑A engineering plans at Raleigh Lagrange & Witton roads). Item 15 (Stratford Center public improvements). Ordinance 5927 to name the Ed Rice Community Center pool after Ossi Lewis Jr. was added and passed on first reading. - Fiscal consent agenda (Items 16‑18) – approved: acceptance of forensic software donation ($2,800), DOJ COPS grant ($163,000), DOJ Byrne grant ($963,000), all for police services. - Add‑on items 33‑36 (same‑night minutes) – approved: Fire services hazmat grant ($9,121), Police port security grant ($248,000), acknowledgment of November 5, 2024 election results, and appointment of Michael Fulton to the Memphis & Shelby County Sports Authority. Public Comments & Testimony - Alice Hart (1919 Due Point, Memphis) – Representing her nonprofit “Know Thy Worth,” she described community giveaways, minority scholarships, and college tours. She requested council support in future grant allocations and promoted a January 25, 2025 fundraiser. - Letricia Adams (655 South Riverside Drive, Memphis) – Raised concerns about the MLGW Share the Pennies program, alleging that some weatherization contractors lack federally‑mandated EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) certification, potentially spreading lead dust in homes. She noted that MLGW staff acknowledged the issue and urged the council to ensure contractor certification and better coordination with city lead‑hazard programs. Councilwoman Easter Thomas directed staff to forward Adams’ email to MLGW President McGowan for response. Discussion Items - Item 1 – 2024 Humanitarian Award: Councilwoman Walker presented a resolution honoring Dr. David and Mrs. Yvonne Acey, founders of the Africa in April Cultural Awareness Festival (established 1986, now the largest black‑owned festival of its kind in the U.S. and sixth largest globally). The resolution was adopted by acclamation. The Aceys and community leaders (Rev. Watkins, LaCelle Vaughan, Rev. Dr. Brooks) spoke about the award’s significance. - Item 2 – Public Safety Promotions: Chairman Canale presented a resolution designating January 7, 2025 as Public Safety Promotion Day. Police Chief Davis introduced newly promoted colonels and a chief of staff. Mayor Young congratulated the honorees and thanked the council. - Item 5 – Plan Development for Auto Repair (PD 24‑16): The Division of Planning and Development recommended rejection for 1389 Fairfax Street due to a prior zoning error. Applicant Aaron Bright explained he obtained permits in good faith and spent weeks cleaning the site. Council debated downzoning plans and small business support. Councilwoman Easter Thomas insisted on a sunset clause to align with future neighborhood rezonings. After discussion, the council added a sunset of November 1, 2027. The item passed unanimously as amended. - Item 6 – Special Use Permit for Vehicle Sales (SUP 24‑11): Approved unanimously. - Item 7 – Special Use Permit for Vehicle Rental (SUP 24‑27): Approved unanimously. - Item 8 – Special Use Permit at 485 North Hollywood (SUP 24‑34): Councilman Carlisle requested a condition requiring the applicant to make reasonable efforts to close an abutting alleyway/right‑of‑way. Friendly amendments regarding fence removal were also incorporated. The resolution passed as amended. - Item 10 – Zoning Reclassification for 485 North Hollywood (Z 24‑10): Approved unanimously. - Items 26‑27 – Sewer Revenue Bonds: Initial and series resolutions authorizing up to $70 million in sanitary sewer system revenue bonds passed unanimously. - Item 28 – Committee to Honor Employees Killed in Line of Duty: Councilman Canale’s resolution was amended to include MLGW and sanitation workers; all 13 council members were added as co‑sponsors. Passed. - Item 29 – Safe Streets and Roads for All Grant: Councilman Spinoza presented a resolution supporting a $13.2 million federal grant ($3.3 million match from Accelerate Memphis) and creating a $2.1 million neighborhood infrastructure fund. Approved unanimously. - Item 30 – FY2025 Community Grant Allocations ($2.6 million): Approved. - Item 31 – Amendment to FY2025 Council Grant Allocations: Approved. Key Outcomes - Item 5 approved with a November 1, 2027 sunset clause, requiring the auto‑repair use to cease by that date unless extended. - Item 8 approved with conditions requiring alley closure pursuit and fence modifications. - Item 28 amended to include MLGW and sanitation workers and co‑sponsored by all council members. - The council approved $2.6 million in community grant allocations (FY2025) and $70 million in sanitary sewer bonds. - A motion to keep Items 3 and 4 on the current agenda failed, postponing them to February 4, 2025. - Concern about MLGW Share the Pennies program will be forwarded to MLGW President McGowan for investigation.

The Memphis City Council convened on December 17, 2024, for a regular meeting that included adoption of minutes, multiple consent agendas, recognition of community members, and a lengthy public hearing on proposed street closures in the Chickasaw Gardens neighborhood. The meeting also featured resolutions honoring retiring MLGW CFO Dana Jeans and Deputy Chief Paul Wright, along with the appointment of a new public works director and MLGW CFO. After debate, the council voted to hold both street closure items (items 5 and 6) to January 7, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approval of December 3, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous). - Consent agenda (items 9-10): Ordinance amending the Unified Development Code (first reading) and resolution for I-40 widening supplemental agreement – approved unanimously. - MLGW fiscal consent (items 11-21): Awarded purchase orders and contract changes totaling several million dollars (e.g., $236,355 for water well pumps, $1.17M for network maintenance, $581,098 for backup replication, etc.) – approved with one abstention (Councilman Cooper Sutton). Public Comments & Testimony General public comments (end of meeting): - Pamela Moses urged more community involvement in decision-making and discussed Walgreens closure in North Memphis and the potential AI initiative with Elon Musk. She called for a community benefits agreement. - LJ Abraham criticized funding a downtown command center given the DOJ report on MPD abuses; called for quarterly audits of special units and data transparency. - Multiple speakers (Brandon Dill, Joanne Selvage, Gillian Winhold, Sara Ann Kennison, Josh Adams) compared the recent DOJ report to the "People's Report," citing patterns of excessive force, unconstitutional stops, and lack of accountability. They urged the council to stop funding MPD and remove police from mental health calls. - Raleigh-Fraser community members (Michelle Keller, Tamandra Cheatham, others) opposed the replacement of Officers Curry and Naylor with a civilian coordinator, citing successful community policing and safety concerns. - Joan Harp criticized the Memphis Animal Services for euthanizing healthy animals and lack of oversight; mentioned a specific case involving a dog surrender. - Joe Kent raised concerns about MLGW transparency, rate increases, and a proposed $70M engineering ops center. - Glenda Hicks expressed concerns about council oversight of MLGW. - Belinda Caroosh highlighted an underpublicized senior discount program for solid waste and sewer fees; she and others said seniors have overpaid for years. - Shirley Ford and Mary Ford shared personal stories of losing sons to violence and feeling failed by the justice system; they asked for help with the DA's office. - Amber Sherman echoed criticisms of MPD and called for policy changes. Testimony on street closure items (items 5 and 6): - Proponents (Cindy Reeves, Natalie Hartman, Chelsea Savage, Lon Magnus, Jared Wilder, Jay McDonald, Lauren Malone): Argued that closing two streets (Lafayette Place and Lombardy Road at Fenwick) would improve pedestrian safety, reduce speeding, and concentrate traffic on safer central entrances. They highlighted 92% homeowner approval, narrow winding streets without sidewalks, and that pedestrian access would remain fully open with cameras and lighting. They stated the HOA would spend $80,000/year on park beautification and security. - Opponents (Attorney John Smith, Peter Kaufman, Pamela Moses, and several residents): Argued that the closures would reduce vehicular access, force traffic onto dangerous Central Avenue, increase congestion and crash risk (citing that the two proposed closures are the safest current access points), and set a precedent of privatizing public streets. They noted over 280 signatures in opposition and that the Land Use Control Board and Planning staff recommended rejection. Concerns were raised about elitism and exclusion, especially given the public park. Council members questioned the lack of data showing speeding problems and noted that speed humps had been denied for lack of traffic data. Discussion Items Recognition Resolutions (unanimous): - Item 1: Resolution congratulating Memphis Academy of Science and Engineering (MASE) on winning the Class 1A football state championship (13-1 record). Approved by acclamation. - Item 2: Resolution honoring Dana Jeans for 37 years at MLGW, noting his role as only person in TN with both PE and CPA licenses, and his work on the TVA Electric Prepay Agreement saving $250M. Approved. - Item 3: Resolution honoring Deputy Chief Paul Wright for 35 years of service with MPD. Councilman Canale and Chief Davis praised his leadership. Approved unanimously. Street Closure Debate (Items 5 and 6): - Item 5 (Lafayette Place right-of-way vacation) and Item 6 (Lombardy Road vacation) were discussed jointly. The administration had originally rejected the proposal due to concerns about reduced access, emergency response, and potential for future gate closure. The applicant presented updated conditions removing locked gates and ensuring 24/7 pedestrian openings. - Council members were divided. Supporters (Carlisle, Spinoza, Ford Sr.) argued the compromise still allows full pedestrian and bike access, reroutes only vehicular traffic, and addresses safety concerns. Opponents (Cooper Sutton, Walker, White) cited lack of data, traffic engineer concerns, and the importance of keeping public streets open. Councilwoman White highlighted that the city's own experts (LUCB, Planning) recommended rejection. - Councilman Ford Sr. moved to hold both items to January 7, 2025, to allow a parks department representative to speak. The motion passed on item 5 (vote: 8-3 in favor of hold; against: Walker, Warren, and Cooper Sutton? Actually roll call: Carlisle yes, Ford yes, Green yes, Logan yes, Spinoza yes, Swearinger Washington yes, Walker no, Warren no, Chairman Canale yes – so 7 yes, 2 no, and others not voting? Wait, minutes show: Carlisle yes, Ford yes, Green yes, Logan yes, Spinoza yes, Swearington Washington yes, Walker no, Warren no, Chairman Canale yes. That's 7 yes, 2 no, so hold passes.) Item 6 was then held without objection to January 7 as well. Other Business: - Item 7: Ordinance to rename Park Lane (Bates Alley) to "Stereo Alley" – third reading, passed with 7 votes (some abstentions). - Item 23: Ordinance establishing 2025 council meeting dates (substitute ordinance with changes: March 4 moved to March 11; July 1 moved to July 8). Passed with one abstention (Warren). - Items 25, 26: Resolutions for equipment transfer for firefighter facilities and port security grant for rescue boat – passed. - Items 27-30 (add-ons): Accepted $100,000 grant for McWherter Senior Center renovation; approved appointment of Scott Wargal as Public Works Director; approved nomination of Rodney Cleek as MLGW VP/CFO at $231,680 salary; approved ARPA reallocations (e.g., $80,000 to Room in the Inn, $20,000 to MIFA, etc.) – all passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Street Closures (Items 5 & 6): Held to January 7, 2025, pending further discussion including parks department input. - All other resolutions and ordinances on the agenda were approved as noted. - Same-night minute items (10, 23, 27-30) were approved as a group. - No data-driven evidence was presented to support the claim that street closures would reduce speeding, as noted by Councilwoman Cooper Sutton and others. - The council committed to arranging a meeting with Chief Davis regarding the Raleigh-Fraser precinct staffing changes.

The Memphis City Council met on December 3, 2024, at 10:30 AM. The meeting included proclamations, approval of consent agendas, and votes on several resolutions and ordinances. Key discussions included the Morphe Memphis economic mobility plan, a downtown command center, and various funding allocations. Consent Calendar - Items 3, 4, and 29 were held until December 17, 2024. - Items 5–9, 39–40 were approved as part of the consent agenda, with item 7 pulled for separate discussion. The consent agenda passed with one abstention (Councilwoman Logan) and one recusal (Councilwoman White). - Fiscal consent agenda (items 10–14) approved with same-night minutes. - MLGW fiscal consent agenda (items 15–27) approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers were present. Councilwoman Easter Thomas noted that Alice Hart had to leave and shared information about a toy drive in the Heights and Fraser areas. Discussion Items - Item 1 – Arts Week Proclamation: Chairman Smiley presented a resolution declaring the first week of December as Arts Week. Approved by acclamation. - Item 2 – Tony B's Heritage Barbershop Honor: Councilwoman Logan presented a resolution honoring Tony B's Heritage Barbershop for over 30 years of community service. Approved by acclamation. - Item 41 – Kevin Kane Street Name Change: Resolution to designate North Main Street between Poplar and Winchester as "Kevin Kane Lane" in honor of the longtime Memphis Tourism CEO. Approved by acclamation. - Item 5 – Special Use Permit: Approved for 252 Brian Cove. - Item 6 – Zoning Reclassification: Third reading of ordinance to rezone 0 Sweeney Road from residential single-family to employment use district. Approved. - Item 7 – Morphe Memphis Ordinance: Ordinance to establish a public-private partnership for economic mobility (Morphe Memphis). After a public comment from Jamila Burke (411 Monroe Ave) defending the plan, the council voted 6–0–3 with one recusal (White). Passed. (Councilwoman Logan requested it be pulled from consent due to concerns about a RICO lawsuit; the city attorney stated no formal lawsuit had been received.) - Item 30 – Downtown Command Center: Resolution to adjust the FY2025 CIP budget for a downtown command center. Initially held for documentation, then amended and approved. - Item 33 & 34 – MLGW Tax Equivalent Payments: Final payments for gas and electric systems approved. Councilwoman White recused. - Item 35 – First Quarter Budget Adjustment: $3,970,956.11 for unanticipated circumstances. Approved. - Item 36 – BCIF TCC RP Grant: $39,500,000 from the state. Approved. - Item 37 – Special Attorney Hiring: Resolution to hire a special attorney for extraordinary litigation. Approved. - Item 38 – Hospitality Hub Work Initiative: $950,000 transferred for a work initiative for panhandlers and homeless. Approved. - Item 28 – Pension System Amendment: Ordinance to amend Chapter 25, pension and retirement system. Approved. - Item 31 – City Hall Improvements Transfer: $1,770,058.54 transferred from various CIP projects to City Hall improvements. Approved. - Item 32 – Community Partners Funding: $350,000 allocated to community partners, amended to $375,000 with $225,000 for Memphis Child Advocacy Center. Approved. Key Outcomes - All proclamations and resolutions on the consent agenda were approved. - The Morphe Memphis ordinance (Item 7) passed despite concerns about a potential RICO lawsuit (no formal suit received). - The downtown command center resolution (Item 30) was amended and approved. - Item 32 was amended to increase funding for the Memphis Child Advocacy Center from $200,000 to $225,000. - Same-night minutes were approved for items 10–14, 30, 33–38, and 41. - Meeting adjourned after all agenda items were considered.

The Memphis City Council convened on November 26, 2024, for its regular meeting. The session opened with an invocation by Father Ruben Bilalan Rivera and remarks from Shelby County School Board leaders, then proceeded through the consent calendar, MLGW budget approval, and public comments. All items on the agenda passed; Councilwoman White recused from the consent vote because of item 5. Consent Calendar - Approved the November 12, 2024 meeting minutes. - Approved by acclamation a resolution honoring Linda Bates on her retirement from Memphis Parks and a resolution designating a section of North Court Avenue as W.J. 'Mike' Cody Street. - Approved planned development PD 24-11 at 1145 East Brooks Road and special use permit SUP 24-36 at 888 North Perkins Road. - Approved consent items 5–11, including first reading of the economic-mobility fiscal-agent ordinance (ordinance 5922), second readings of ordinances 5920 and 5921, a street name change to Stereo Alley, zoning changes, and a bond release. Councilwoman White recused from the entire consent vote over item 5; a council member disclosed a possible conflict on item 11 but said it had no impact on the vote. - Approved item 12, accepting $1,367,200 from the state for in-service training of 179 police officers. - Approved MLGW consent items 13–25, including $22 million for air disconnect switches, $8.6 million in environmental consulting, $10 million in environmental abatement, $950,000 for fleet maintenance, and multiple equipment and technology contracts. - Approved item 26, appointment of Rashida Jones to the Memphis and Shelby County Redevelopment Agency. - Approved item 27 (convention center cover line funds), item 28 ($54,309 in insurance proceeds for Mississippi River Museum water damage), item 29 (sale of Zero Quince Road parcel for $6,000), item 30 (sale of 1632 Bricken Street as amended), item 31 (sale of 564 North Mananza Street), item 32 (weatherization grant of $1,178,517.02), item 33 ($1.5 million transfer for Central Library escalator/elevator repair), item 35 (additional construction funds for the Pinch A.W. Willis sewer project), item 36 ($5.9 million capital lease for solid waste vehicles), and item 37 (MOU with Shelby County for solar panels at the Memphis Zoo). - Same-night minute requests were approved for items 2, 11, 12, 36, and 38. Public Comments & Testimony - School Board Chair Joyce Coleman, Commissioner Sable O'Tea, and Commissioner Natalie McKinney said the board is not advocating a specific site for a new high school but wants to partner with the council and the Cordova Business Association. - Linda Bates and representatives of the Cody family thanked the council for the honors. - Lisa Bennett from Raleigh described a water leak and potholes in her cove that took over a year to address and asked how the council and MLGW decide which infrastructure needs are emergencies. - Joe Kent praised MLGW's transparency, said the $20 million reduction in tree-trimming costs should eliminate the proposed 4% residential electric rate increase, and urged the council to reject the five-year MLGW budget and cut it by $300 million. He also called More for Memphis non-transparent and redundant. - Charles Moss and Brianna Scott spoke in support of More for Memphis; Moss called it the 'heartbeat of the city,' and Scott said it brings $100 million in resources and asks only for cooperation, not city money. - Amber Sherman opposed additional city funding without detailed justification, said downtown crime is down 27%, questioned the need for a downtown command center, and asked for more investment in parks, youth, and infrastructure. - Centeria Johnson accused the council of mismanagement, conflicts of interest, and pay-to-play behavior tied to More for Memphis and asked for funding verification, recusals, and ouster proceedings. - Xavier Wade criticized More for Memphis as corrupt and said the initiative showed double standards, but declined when asked to specify the actual issue. - Diamond Johnson said the issue is the City Council, not More for Memphis, and alleged racism in funding access for Black organizations. She said she would file a complaint with the Department of Justice and asked which council members received donations from Tennessee Prosperous. - Chairman Smiley responded that the council runs a community grant program distributing over $2 million annually, mostly to Black-owned nonprofits, and does not rubber-stamp items. Councilwoman Green warned that threats to influence votes are not permitted. Discussion Items - MLGW FY2025 budget (item 34): Councilman Spinoza moved approval after praising MLGW President Doug McGowan and the utility's team. Public comment and follow-up discussion focused on infrastructure. After the unanimous vote, Councilwoman Logan asked McGowan to respond to Lisa Bennett's complaint. McGowan apologized, explained that an asphalt contractor failure delayed repairs, and described new coordination with the city engineer, a new gas/water operations vice president, mobile dispatch, drone inspections, and QR-code outreach for lead service line work. - More for Memphis / fiscal-agent ordinance (item 5): The first-reading ordinance passed on the consent agenda. Chairman Smiley told public speakers the council had held the item in committee after the administration could not answer questions, and that it still needs additional readings. - Mental health supports resolution (item 38): Approved, with all council members added as co-sponsors; Councilwoman Green said supporting officers' mental health means a safer community. Key Outcomes - All agenda items passed, with recorded roll-call votes unanimous except Councilwoman White's recusal on the consent agenda. - The MLGW FY2025 operating and capital budget was approved. - Item 30 was amended to sell the Bricken Street parcel for $300, requiring a public garden for two years and reverting to $2,200 if the condition is not met. - Same-night minute items 2, 11, 12, 36, and 38 were approved. - Public comments raised concerns about MLGW infrastructure, More for Memphis transparency, and downtown command center spending; council members responded by defending the process and pledging improved coordination with MLGW.