Memphis Rallies Around More for Memphis Ordinance Amid Controversy
In Memphis, exciting changes may be on the horizon, as the community gears up for a pivotal moment in the shape of the More for Memphis ordinance. Set to have its second reading before the Shelby County Commission on December 16, this ordinance aims to tackle the persistent issue of poverty in the city through a united effort involving local government bodies, businesses, and everyday citizens.
A Community-Driven Initiative
The More for Memphis initiative is the brainchild of Seeding Success, a group that has devoted over three years to devise this plan. Itโs not just a government project; it encompasses insights from over 1,000 community members and more than 100 organizations who offered their thoughts and lived experiences to inform the project. Jamilica Burke, the president of Seeding Success, acknowledged that the journey has been โchallengingโ but expressed pride in the outcome.
What is More for Memphis?
Essentially, the ordinance seeks to establish a board representing city, county, and school board officials, alongside community membersโranging from business owners to local residents. But what exactly will this board do? Well, itโs poised to be the fiscal agent that manages funds acquired through grants and donations aimed at enhancing the everyday lives of Memphians. The ultimate goal? To expedite economic development and improve access to essential resources like education, legal services, and healthcare.
A Financial Road Map
Implementing the strategies outlined in the plan is no small feat. It will require around $1.4 billion over five years, with a hefty $1.05 billion coming from public funding and $410 million in philanthropic contributions. The ordinance aims to create a sustainable structure that continues to work for the community, even as new elected officials come in and out due to regular elections.
Challenges Ahead
However, not everyone is on board with the More for Memphis plan. Some community members have raised concerns, viewing it as a potential avenue for privatizing public funds. Rev. Gerald Kiner, a prominent critic and pastor at the Jesus People Church, has been vocal at public meetings, arguing that the initiative could take resources away from the community rather than help it. In fact, several pro se lawsuits have been filed against city and county officials, indicating the level of unrest among some Memphians.
Unity or Division?
Despite the pushback, Burke emphasizes a collaborative spirit, highlighting that the plan is focused on making Memphis a better place to live, work, and play. The thought process behind More for Memphis revolves around reducing duplication of efforts and ensuring resources are allocated efficiently across the three governing bodies, which can only be beneficial in the long run.
Whatโs Next?
The More for Memphis ordinance came precariously close to failing during its last city council meeting, with only six votes registered in its favor, one short of what was necessary. Technically, it still has a couple of readings left to goโanother session on December 17 for the Memphis City Council. You can catch all the action in person or via live streams if you wish to stay updated!
As the community prepares for the upcoming meetings, thereโs an air of anticipation and hope among many Memphians. With the potential for significant change on the way, the question remains: Will More for Memphis unite the community and rise to the occasion in tackling poverty, or will it lead to further division? Only time will tell!
For those interested, the full More for Memphis plan is accessible for reading at moreformemphis.org.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
