Memphis’ political and civic landscape is in flux following a state-ordered takeover of Memphis-Shelby County Schools, the suspension of a top official facing federal charges, and renewed clashes over local power.

A state-appointed board now has authority over Memphis-Shelby County Schools through 2030. Geoff Calkins was in Nashville for the board’s first meeting. MSCS and Shelby County government have filed a federal lawsuit challenging the takeover, arguing it unconstitutionally targets Memphis and strips local voters of meaningful control.

Meanwhile, General Sessions Court Clerk Tami Sawyer was suspended with pay days after her first court appearance on federal charges of theft, wire fraud, and money laundering. GOP gubernatorial contender John Rose said the case shows it is time to “shake up the court system in Shelby County,” signaling the issue could surface in upcoming county and statewide races.

Budget season sees Shelby County commissioners weighing a potential county property tax increase, while the Memphis City Council appears likely to keep the city rate flat. Memphis Light, Gas and Water has proposed battery storage projects to strengthen the electric grid amid extreme weather and rising demand.

The Memphis Art Museum will offer free admission to Shelby County residents when it opens in December. Calkins also spoke with Barbara and Pitt Hyde about their philanthropic role in the museum and the broader Memphis community.

— Alys Drake, Digital Producer

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The new board overseeing Memphis-Shelby County Schools convened for the first time Thursday — in Nashville, with little notice, at 8:45 a.m. If the hope was to win over conflicted Memphians, this was a bizarre way to start.

First Memphis schools takeover meeting set for Thursday in Nashville By Laura Testino

MSCS, Shelby County file federal lawsuit over Tennessee's takeover law By Laura Testino

Who's on the Memphis-Shelby County Schools state takeover board? By Laura Testino

Memphis developer Billy Orgel will chair Memphis schools takeover By Laura Testino

Tami Sawyer indicted, faces federal corruption charges By Bill Dries, Brandon LaGrone II

Tami Sawyer suspended as clerk, Stanton appointed as interim By Laura Testino, Bill Dries

City and county budget seasons are winding down. Here's what two local leaders have to say. By Bill Dries

Tami Sawyer indictment renews Republican push for state intervention By Bill Dries

County Commission sets (tentative) property tax rate By Bill Dries

MLGW proposes battery storage projects to strengthen electric grid By Samuel Hardiman

Calkins: The Memphis Art Museum will be the next great place in the city — because of Barbara and Pitt Hyde. By Geoff Calkins

Memphis Art Museum will have free admission for Shelby County residents By Elle Perry

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