Memphis City Council to Vote on Historic Melrose School Lease and Infrastructure Funding Today
Overview of Today’s Council Session
Today, Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the Memphis City Council is scheduled for a comprehensive series of committee meetings followed by a regular session at 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The day’s agenda is packed with significant resolutions ranging from historic preservation and housing to major infrastructure repairs and government reorganization. Residents can observe the sessions in person at 125 North Main Street or via the city’s official live stream.
Housing and Historic Preservation
A primary focus of this morning’s Housing and Community Development Committee is the future of the Historic Melrose School building. The Council is set to review a resolution approving a 50-year ground lease with Melrose Housing Partners, LLC. This agreement would facilitate the construction and operation of multifamily residential apartments on the upper two floors of the historic structure, alongside additional affordable townhomes and apartment units on an adjacent 1.03-acre site in District 4. This project represents a major step in the city’s efforts to revitalize historic assets while addressing the local need for affordable housing. Additionally, the committee will consider the sale of city-owned parcels at 369 and 371 N. Main Street to support downtown development.
Infrastructure and Public Works
The Parks and Environment Committee has scheduled a vote to allocate $148,519.80 toward repairs for the Westwood Pool. These funds are being redirected from eight completed Memphis Parks projects to ensure the facility is ready for the upcoming summer season. Meanwhile, the Public Works Committee will host a presentation from EchoTwin AI, exploring new technologies for city management, and will discuss Ordinance 5943, which impacts the regulation and operation of downtown parking garages.
Government Efficiency and Technology
In the afternoon Executive Session, Chairwoman Jana Swearengen-Washington is sponsoring a resolution to reorganize the city’s technical infrastructure. The proposal seeks to remove the Program Management Office (IT PMO) from the Information Technology Division and establish it as an independent, executive-accountable department. This move is designed to provide greater enterprise governance and procurement oversight for citywide projects without increasing the current budget. Furthermore, the Economic Development Committee will vote on a $250,000 appropriation for Convention Center improvements under the 2026 Capital Improvement Program.
Community Recognition
The 4:00 p.m. regular meeting will include a special presentation in honor of Black History Month. The Council will also present the City Council Humanitarian Award to Ms. Chrysti Chandler, recognizing her recent service and contributions to the Memphis community. Following these presentations, the Council will proceed with the final votes on the day’s legislative items.