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I want to address the recent discussions and concerns regarding the xAl project in Southwest Memphis, particularly from our neighbors in the 38109 zip code, including the Boxtown community. I want you to know that I hear you.
As Mayor, my commitment and focus is to ensure that Memphis grows in a way that benefits our entire community – and that it does so without compromising our environment or leaving certain communities out of the conversation.
I understand the concerns that have been raised about air quality, the use of natural gas turbines, and the potential strain this project could place on our water supply. I also recognize that the speed of this project's development may have left some members of our community feeling there wasn't enough time for community engagement.
I understand the apprehension regarding this project, and I also understand the massive opportunity this project represents. This is a major economic opportunity for Memphis. xAI has already invested over $10 billion to revitalize the previously abandoned Electrolux facility, and that investment comes without tax abatements. That means tens of millions of dollars in new revenue - revenue that will be directed back into our neighborhoods. Currently, I am working on an ordinance – the first of its kind in Memphis – that dedicates a portion of tax revenue created by xAI to support projects and improvements in the 38109 zip code. I want to ensure that this community directly benefits from this project.
 I want to be clear, I don’t take any decision that impacts our community lightly. Even though this project wasn’t asking for incentives, I worked hard to ensure that xAI would be a responsible community partner; I asked them to build a wastewater treatment facility - and they said yes. Their commitment isn’t just talk, xAl has already begun constructing the Colossus Water Recycle Plant, an $80 million facility designed to treat and reuse wastewater, which reduces industrial use of our aquifer from xAI, TVA, and Nucor. This is the single largest green infrastructure project in our city’s history - that is a hugely significant development and should not be discounted. The xAI team has also developed a battery farm that allows them to take their operations entirely off our power grid during times of power instability or high use. They are the only industrial or corporate partner currently able to remove themselves from the grid altogether when needed. They have also committed to operating their temporary turbines in compliance with the Clean Air Act, using SCR technology to further reduce emissions. We're enthusiastic about continuing conversations with xAl around solar energy and ensuring that our residents' access to power isn't impacted by this project - especially during times of inclement weather.
 I have always believed transparency is critical to improving relationships and achieving goals. And moving forward, you have my word that our team will work harder to make sure we are communicating more clearly about this and other projects coming into our community. My goal is always to include as many voices as possible as we shape the future of our city.
I am a parent; my kids live here, too. Protecting the future of Memphis is personally important to me, and working together with everyone in our community, I believe we can navigate this development in a way that honors our community's needs, says yes to innovation and growth, and elevates our city.
Good News!
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Weekly Crime Trend
The report below provides our weekly update on Part 1 Crimes. It updates daily and shows a continuous rolling 7-day total compared to the prior 7-day total. The charts on the right show the calendar week trend, comparing 2023 to 2024.
 (We maintain two crime dashboards, the Weekly Crime Trend report can be found here, and the Crime Analytics dashboard can be accessed here.)
Our Strike Team worked in the following zip codes this week: 38106, 38107, 38108, 38109, 38111, 38112, 38114, 38116, 38118, 38127, 38128
In the Know:
National Veterans Golden Age Games Volunteers. The 39th National Veterans Golden Games (NVGAG) are looking for energetic, dedicated individuals who will volunteer their time and talents which are essential to the success of the Games. Volunteers will receive one meal voucher and a t-shirt. Become a volunteer today! See more and share here.
Neighborhood Watch: Build a Safer Community. Take action against crime in your neighborhood by joining or starting a Neighborhood Watch group through your local MPD station. Get resources, guidance, and access to the Neighborhood Crime Prevention Grant to support safety initiatives. Eligible neighborhood groups can apply for funding by attending a mandatory workshop and meeting key requirements. Learn more about how to protect and strengthen your community by attending one the workshops! See more and apply for the grant here.
Combined Events Clinic. Calling all young athletes! The Ed Murphey Classic and Murphey Track Club are hosting a FREE Track & Field Clinic on March 30 at Halle Stadium. Led by Olympian Harrison Williams and NCAA Champion Michelle Atherley, this clinic will cover multiple track and field events and is open to elementary, middle, and high school athletes of all experience levels. Beginners welcome! Don’t miss this chance to train with the best! Register & learn more here.
Social and Community Engagement:
Safer Memphis 365. The Safer Memphis 365 event, hosted by the Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement, took place on March 19 at Bridges. This community-driven initiative aimed to reduce violence and foster safer neighborhoods. The event brought together city and county administrations, local organizations, and residents to share ideas, learn about violence prevention strategies, and commit to making a positive impact. Emphasizing non-traditional approaches to public safety, it focused on prevention, intervention, and community development to address the root causes of violence. Together, Memphis and Shelby County are building a foundation for lasting change and resilience." The next meeting will be Wednesday, April 23. Stay tuned for more information.
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Remembering MLK at National Civil Rights Museum. Join the National Civil Rights Museum on April 4 for a powerful commemoration honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This annual event invites the community—both in person and virtually—to reflect on Dr. King’s impact and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. The evening includes a keynote address, special performances, fraternal tributes, and the changing of the wreath at the Lorraine Motel. The event will culminate in a moment of silence marking the time of Dr. King’s passing. See more and register here.
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Dream Forward with Operation Hope. Join us on April 4, 2025, for a groundbreaking virtual town hall streamed live from Memphis, Tennessee. Inspired by the Poor People’s Campaign, this event will bring together leaders, change-makers, and communities worldwide to build a bold, action-driven business plan for an inclusive and sustainable economy. Co-hosted by John Hope Bryant, Dr. Bernice King, Ambassador Andrew Young, and Mayor Paul Young, this discussion will focus on financial empowerment and economic growth for all. Register here.
 Volunteer Odyssey. April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to mobilize change agents who want to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Change does not happen on its own, it takes dedicated people like you to make it real. Volunteer Odyssey will be highlighting opportunities to serve with non-profit organizations, go to their website and sign up here.
Stay Connected:
Investing in our small businesses means investing in the future of Memphis. It’s about more than just economics—it’s about building stronger neighborhoods, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow, and fostering generational wealth that can be passed down for years to come. When we support local businesses, we’re planting seeds for a thriving, self-sustaining community—one that grows from the ground up and reflects the spirit, resilience, and talent of our city.
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