Jackson leaders are considering requiring electric vehicle charging stations at new developments in the city.
Outgoing Mayor Derek Dobies says he introduced the proposal to combat climate change and to prepare for an electrified future. The ordinance would require bike parking and EV charging ports when a structure is built or enlarged.
But, speaking during a meeting earlier this fall, City Council Member Jeromy (Jeremy) Alexander asked to table the proposal indefinitely.
“The one word that I keep going back through my mind is ‘expensive.’ You know, it's hard enough to develop right now. And it seems like this is going to be an obstacle to every single development that comes in. Every single development will be more expensive if this passes.”
Council members voted last month (October) to send the plan Jackson’s Environmental Commission for further consideration.