Memphis City Council to Hold Final Vote on Correctional Facility Zoning Today
City Council Convenes for Pivotal Session
The Memphis City Council is scheduled to meet today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, for a regular session that includes several high-profile agenda items. Following a series of delays and committee discussions earlier this year, the council is expected to address major zoning changes and infrastructure funding that have drawn significant attention from residents and local activists alike. The meeting will begin with committee sessions throughout the morning and afternoon, culminating in the regular council meeting at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall.
Final Decision on Correctional Facility Zoning
The most anticipated item on today's agenda is the third and final reading of Ordinance No. 5958. This legislation, sponsored by Councilmembers Michalyn Easter-Thomas and Jerred Price, aims to revise the city’s zoning and subdivision regulations specifically pertaining to the location and operation of correctional facilities, detention centers, and jails within city limits. The ordinance was previously held during the January 27 session to allow for further community input and legal review. Proponents of the bill argue that stricter zoning is necessary to ensure that such facilities do not disproportionately impact residential neighborhoods, while opponents have raised concerns regarding the potential impact on the local justice system's capacity.
Infrastructure and Public Works Resolutions
In addition to zoning matters, the council will vote on a critical public works resolution to address long-standing drainage issues. The administration has requested the transfer and appropriation of $367,793.80 in construction funds for the Madeline Drain Improvements project. These funds are being redirected from the ST Coverline drainage project to provide immediate upgrades to the system near Madeline Circle. The move is part of Mayor Paul Young’s broader initiative to prioritize neighborhood-level infrastructure following his recent State of the City address, where he emphasized the need for a 'Safer and Cleaner Memphis.'
Administrative Contracts and Public Access
The council is also expected to review a change order for Contract No. 12483 with Korn Ferry. The resolution seeks to increase the contract amount by $76,608 for survey administration solutions. Officials state this is necessary to support ongoing personnel evaluations within city divisions. Today's proceedings are open to the public at the Council Chambers located at 125 N. Main Street. For those unable to attend in person, the session will be broadcast live on 88.5 FM (WQOX) and via the city’s digital media archive. General public comments will be heard at the conclusion of the regular agenda items for individuals who registered with the Sergeant-at-Arms prior to the start of the meeting.