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There’s been a lot of noise about the xAI project. A lot of shouting. A lot of misinformation. What there hasn’t been enough of is truth.
Let’s be clear, this isn’t a debate between the environment and economics. It’s about putting people before politics. It’s about building something better for communities that have waited far too long for real investment.
 On behalf of our city, I’m choosing Memphis. I’m choosing facts over fear, solutions over soundbites, and progress over performative outrage.
Let’s set the record straight:
Claim #1: xAI plans to install 45 to 90 turbines in Memphis. False. Their permit outlines 15 temporary-use turbines for their first facility. That’s it. There’s no plan, permit, or proposal for anything more. The power solution for their second site hasn’t been determined.
Claim #2: xAI is operating 35 turbines illegally. False. They are operating 21 mobile power units legally, under EPA regulations that allow for temporary power for up to 365 days that allow for temporary power for up to 365 days. These turbines are temporary. xAI is building two new MLGW substations, at their own expense, to connect directly to the grid. Once complete, turbines will be used only for emergency backup power, as outlined in their health department permit.
Claim #3: I was asked to sign a nondisclosure agreement. False. I was never asked to sign an NDA, and I didn’t. My decisions on this project have been transparent and made in the public interest.
Claim #4: My support for this project is part of some quid pro quo. Also false. No one’s pockets are getting lined. I support this project because I believe it will bring real, lasting financial benefits to 38109 and the neighborhoods around the site. For communities that have endured decades of disinvestment, this is a chance to create lasting change.
Claim #5: The city’s return will be “pennies.” Completely false. The City of Memphis is projected to receive $12 million in tax revenue in the first year alone (with an additional $14 million to the county). And every one of those 1.2 billion pennies will be put to work for the people of Memphis.
 We’re introducing Memphis’ first-ever Community Benefit Ordinance, which mandates that 25% of xAI’s city property tax revenue be reinvested directly into neighborhoods within five miles of the facility. That means more than $3 million this year alone. Over the next decade, as additional project phases come online, this could total more than $100 million for infrastructure upgrades, home repairs, and quality-of-life improvements in communities that too often get talked about—but not truly invested in.
That’s not a headline. That’s transformation. That’s leadership rooted in equity and action.
There are no tax incentives, no public dollars, and no city subsidies tied to this project. xAI is using its own capital to build, power, and operate here. And they must follow every rule set by the appropriate government agencies. If they don’t, we’ll hold them accountable.
We are not ignoring concerns—we’re addressing them with independent environmental consultants and new community benefit policies. We are committed to both environmental responsibility and economic justice. Memphis should not be forced to choose between the two.
 Some would rather stir fear than do the work. In February, I helped bring xAI, environmental advocates, and one of the project’s loudest critics to the table. The meeting ended with handshakes, hugs, and agreement for monthly follow-ups to continue the conversation. But that critic never returned to the table to work on meaningful solutions.
Meanwhile, we’re delivering what this community actually needs: $100 million in reinvestment. Local jobs. Greater energy resilience and less strain on our aquifer. And yes, health and safety safeguards—not only outside, but inside our homes, where mold, lead-based paint, and chronic respiratory hazards continue to harm our children.
So let me say it plainly: I’m choosing Memphis.I’m choosing investment.I’m choosing people.
I’m choosing to fight for a South Memphis that doesn’t just survive – but thrives. Because protecting the people of Memphis is a responsibility I take seriously. And I won’t be distracted by those who are more interested in headlines than in doing the hard work of change.
Good News!
   Do you have good news to share? We would love to share it! Send us a note at goodnews@memphistn.gov
Weekly Crime Trend
The linked report below provides our weekly update on Part 1 Crimes. The Safer Community Dashboard updates daily. The chart below compares 2025 to 2024 and Week/Week for 2025
 For more info on how to use the dashboard, go here.
Our Strike Team worked in the following zip codes this week: 38107, 38108, 38112, 38122
In the Know:
CAESAR Public Forum. The University of Memphis is launching a 5-year study on our city’s most vital natural resource—and they want to hear from you.
Join the CAESAR Public Forum on June 23 from 6pm to 7pm at Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library to learn about the research and take part in community discussions.
See more and share here.
Solid Waste Management Plan. We want your voice to be heard as we develop the 30-year solid waste plan to work towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for our city. If you have any plans, ideas, thoughts or feedback then let us know in this survey here.
CSA Community Needs Assessment Survey: Shelby County Community Services Agency (CSA), the primary provider of rent and utility assistance for local residents, is seeking your input! As they work to secure funding and shape future programming, your voice can help ensure resources go where they’re needed most. Your feedback plays a key role in building more effective, community-driven support across Shelby County. Take survey here.
To report concerns related to property violations, potholes, and trash, click the link here or call 311 to speak to a live agent.
Social and Community Engagement:
Solid Waste Holiday Schedule. In observance of the Juneteenth holiday on Wednesday, June 19, there will be no solid waste collection that day for City of Memphis-serviced customers. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday pickups will remain on schedule. Thursday and Friday routes will both be collected on Friday, June 21. For contractor-serviced customers, check your pickup schedule here.
City Meets County Celebrity Basketball Game. The All-Star Celebrity Basketball Game returns Saturday, June 14 at Southwind High School, featuring a rematch between Mayor Paul Young and Mayor Lee Harris. Doors open at 2pm, with tipoff at 3pm, and appearances by local leaders, athletes, and entertainers. Proceeds support Heal the Hood Foundation’s youth programs. Get tickets here.
Juneteenth Celebrations at Memphis Public Libraries. Memphis Public Libraries is hosting a variety of free Juneteenth events across multiple branches from June 13–19. Celebrate with storytimes, poetry, local vendors, drumming, art workshops, and more—including the 4th annual Juneteenth Fest at Cordova Library on June 14. See all events and details here.
City vs. County Softball Game. The City of Memphis and Shelby County are going head-to-head on the diamond! Join us Thursday, June 19 at 5pm at AutoZone Park for the 2025 City vs. County Softball Game featuring Mayor Paul Young and Mayor Lee Harris. Don’t miss this fun showdown for bragging rights. Get your tickets here.
Boots on the Ground Intergeneration Day Party. Join us June 21 from 2–5pm at the Orange Mound Community Center Gym for an intergenerational day of music, dancing, storytelling, food, and community pride. Youth and elders together — boots on the ground, building the future of Orange Mound. See more and share here.
Stay Connected:
In honor of National Gun Violence Awareness Day, the Joint Office of Neighborhood Safety & Engagement hit the streets of 38127, 38109, and 38114—neighborhoods most impacted by gun violence—to spread a message of unity, healing, and prevention.
 Volunteers passed out orange light bulbs as a symbol of solidarity, and community events throughout the weekend brought residents, leaders, and organizations together to honor lives lost and build safer, more connected neighborhoods.
We wear orange. We remember. We act.
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