MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The debate over air quality in Shelby County continued Tuesday, Dec. 16, one day after the Memphis and Shelby County Air Pollution Control Board voted to allow xAI’s permit for its data center near Boxtown to remain in place.
Environmental and civil rights advocates said the 6-1 decision leaves nearby residents frustrated and demanding accountability, particularly in a community that has long raised concerns about pollution and public health.
Darryl Sledge, who has lived in Boxtown for more than 50 years, said the board’s decision felt like another setback for a community already struggling to protect its health…