Public Meetings - Biloxi, Mississippi

The Biloxi City Council met on July 28, 2026, at 22:46 UTC (local time not specified) to address routine approvals, policy items, consent agenda items, and code enforcement hearings. The meeting featured extensive discussion on a proposal to concrete grassy strips along Division Street, which was tabled after debate. Several ordinances and resolutions were passed unanimously, and council members reported on community issues including school safety, park maintenance, and support for the local seafood industry. Consent Calendar - The council approved the routine agenda on a 7-0 vote after removing item six (a code enforcement hearing). - The consent agenda (including items E, I, K, N, O) was approved 7-0 after discussions and tabling of item D (see Discussion Items). Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Ruskey, representing Harrison County Library System, invited the council and public to a Library Lollapalooza open house at the Margaret Sherry Library on Monday, August 3, 2026, from 4-7 p.m., featuring a mega book sale and family activities. - No other citizens spoke during the 45-minute public comment period. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: The mayor announced a movie bash at George Lawrence Pavilion on Point Cadet at 6 p.m. and reminded that citizen police academy applications are due Thursday. - Departmental Reports: Police Chief Everett gave a public safety announcement about school season, urging drivers to be cautious, stay 10 feet back from stopped school buses, and not pass buses. He stated that police would be out in full force to protect children. - Council Reports: - Councilman Nel (Ward 3) requested consideration of a temporary wage increase for city grass-cutting workers during hot months, noted Hiller Park looking good, inquired about the pond grant agreement (waiting for DMR execution), and asked about ditch-cleaning equipment and Broadwater property maintenance. He reported quotes for the Biloxi West Library roof are pending bond fund availability. - Councilman Creel thanked Jody Ewing and Jerry Courtney for responsive work, asked about traffic light technology at Riverview and Sunkist Country Club (not yet evaluated), and requested an update on the Pass and Nelson traffic study. - Council President Weaver echoed the police chief’s school safety message and thanked public works for locating a covered drain on Fairview Drive. - Councilman Glavin thanked the grass-cutting crew, introduced Resolution D (support for USDA inclusion of wild-caught peeled and deveined shrimp in emergency food assistance), reported on a congressional hearing about the Bonnet Carre Spillway (noting the Corps of Engineers corrected his earlier claim – the spillway was two inches, not two feet, from opening), and announced a volunteer event at Belmont Gardens on July 29, 8-10:30 a.m., to help seniors affected by flooding. Kimberly Woodward spoke about the event, noting 60 units flooded and the need for temporary sandbagging. - Councilman Shoemaker reported a new Mexican restaurant, El Vulcan, opened on Lorraine Road, and mentioned small washouts in yards near new sidewalks. - Councilman Gray (Ward 1) thanked the county for paving Comfort Street, inquired about repairs under the I-110 bridge and lights by Hopkins, and asked about funding for the Veterans to St. Paul road project (Rod 9). Director Labata explained that Rod 9 is bid-ready with about $32-34.5 million available, but additional FEMA funds may be contested for $9 million needed for unforeseen costs. - Councilman Marshall praised the police chief for a reduction in unhoused individuals on sidewalks, noted positive officer interactions, and asked for school safety public service announcements. He also raised concerns about park maintenance at Main Street (Praise in the Park event), missing railings on the sidewalk to the bathroom, and strongly supported the Save Our Sound initiative, thanking former mayor and council president for forming a coalition. - Policy Agenda: - Item A (Ordinance to amend municipal facilities rental language) approved 7-0. - Item B (Ordinance to amend tree committee, tree permit, tree protection sections) approved 7-0 after discussion. Key changes: public hearings not required for single-family residential tree removal unless it's a majestic tree; increased mitigation tree requirements; removal of five-tree public hearing requirement for homeowners complying with insurance. - Item C (Ordinance amending leisure and recreation districts) approved 7-0. This extends the West Biloxi leisure district south of the Pops Ferry Bridge to include commercial areas near Rouse's, allowing open containers in cups. Councilman Creel clarified the district does not extend north of the bridge or into residential areas. Councilman Glavin noted potential concerns about homeless individuals, but the Creel stated the area will see development that may push them out. - Item D (Resolution supporting USDA inclusion of wild-caught shrimp) approved 7-0. Councilman Glavin reported only 22 boats went out this shrimp season compared to 255 ten years ago and 1,200 before Katrina. The resolution aims to provide a guaranteed buyer for local shrimp. - Consent Agenda Item D (Concreting Division Street strips): Discussed at length. The item sought to transfer $90,000 from Project 1127 (MIMA funds) to add to $147,000 in state bond funds to concrete narrow grassy strips between the sidewalk and curb on Division Street from I-110 to Forest Avenue. Councilman Gray made a motion to table the item for one week so council members could inspect the site and address citizen complaints about concreting up to 6-12 foot wide strips. After debate, the motion to table carried 5-2. Councilman Labata noted that concreting could be done in-house even without the transfer, and that utilities under the strips prevent planting trees. Councilman Marshall expressed concern about the cost of maintaining new infrastructure, while Councilman Shoemaker defended the development's long-term tax revenue benefits. - Code Enforcement Hearings: Several properties discussed. Notable: - 230 Lemuse Street (Paulette Averhart): Violation for demolition. Councilman Marshall requested a 30-day extension to contact the family; approved 5-1 (Mr. Glavin out). - 223 Keller Avenue: Requested 60-day extension; approved 4-3. - 250 Lee Street (Mays Properties): No extension, hearing closed. - Other properties either resolved or hearings closed with no representation. Key Outcomes - Approved (all 7-0): Amended municipal facilities ordinance, tree ordinance, leisure district ordinance, and shrimp support resolution. - Tabled (5-2): Consent agenda item D (concreting Division Street) until the next council meeting on August 4, 2026. - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0 with tabling of D. - Code Enforcement: 30-day extension granted for 230 Lemuse Street (5-1); 60-day extension granted for 223 Keller Avenue (4-3). - Next Meeting: Special workshop at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 (following the regular 6 p.m. meeting that night).

The Biloxi City Council held a budget work session on July 28, 2026, to review proposed fiscal year 2027 budgets for the Parks and Recreation and Community Development departments. The meeting featured detailed presentations on revenue shortfalls, proposed service cuts, and potential fee increases. Councilmembers expressed concerns over the closure of the Snyder Center pool, reductions in youth sports tournaments, and the need for balanced economic development. No final votes were taken on the budgets. Parks and Recreation Budget Presentation Parks and Recreation Director Jamie Lee presented a draft budget of $4.215 million, down from $4.9 million in the previous year. Key proposed changes included: - Administration: reducing full-time positions from six to four by not filling a computer operator and executive secretary, saving approximately $107,000. - Grass cutting: eliminating all contractual grass cutting at the causeway, Keysler Federal Park, and the visitor center, saving about $90,000. - Beautification: reducing overtime from $35,000 to $8,000. - Parks: cutting full-time positions from ten to seven and overtime from $37,000 to $15,000. - Recreation: maintaining positions but reducing overtime from $15,000 to $10,000; free programs to be reduced or eliminated; summer playground likely eliminated after a small loss this year. - Athletics: reducing youth sports supplies from $95,000 to $40,000; considering raising participant fees from $50 to $75 (still lowest in region); sports hall of fame banquet possibly every other year; limiting ball tournaments to two per month due to staffing. - Snyder Center pool: expected to close within two weeks due to a lifeguard shortage (only five lifeguards for both the Snyder pool and the natatorium). The pool costs $160,000 annually to operate, including two lifeguards and utilities. - Aquatics division: reducing permanent positions from 14 (8 full-time, 6 part-time) to 6 full-time. Lifeguard starting pay is $15/hour; nationwide shortage cited. - Visitor center (taking over in October): proposed reduced hours (Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 9-2, closed Sun/holidays); current operating cost estimated at over $600,000 with $110,000 in rental revenue. Council Discussion on Parks and Recreation Councilmembers questioned the proposed cuts, particularly the reduction in ball tournaments. Councilman Gray argued tournaments are revenue-generating and should be expanded, not cut. Councilman Glavin proposed offsetting uniform costs ($60,000) through increased fees and suggested putting back $40,000 for scoreboard technology and temporary fencing. Councilman Gray also expressed surprise about the pool closure, noting that only three council members had been briefed. Councilman Tisdale explained the lifeguard shortage is a long-standing issue and the decision to close was driven by resignations. Councilman Gray advocated for raising fees for non-residents and increasing annual passes (currently $60 for seniors). Councilman Creel criticized the city’s failure to raise fees and taxes gradually, arguing that the city now appears “broke.” He questioned why revenue-generating opportunities had not been pursued earlier. Councilman Marshall asked about costs at Hiller Park and the need for in-house maintenance. Councilman Glavin raised the possibility of having the Biloxi school board fund lifeguards for school-related swim meets, but noted the interlocal agreement does not require that. Community Development Budget Presentation Community Development Director Jerry Creel presented a proposed budget of $2.49 million, a reduction of $1.3 million from the 2026 budget of $3.8 million. After deducting salaries and benefits (close to $2 million), only $547,368 remains for supplies and services. Mandatory items (fuel, tree mitigation, electricity, etc.) total $378,594, leaving just $168,774 for the year. Key reductions: - Back Bay Mission funding cut from $50,000 to $25,000. - Repairs to the old brick house (estimated $200,000) postponed. - Land clearance reduced from $90,000 to $75,000. - Two positions left unfunded (planning tech and code enforcement officer). Creel noted positive economic news: construction permits for new construction are $10 million ahead of last year; sales tax revenues have topped $1 million for 63 consecutive months; gaming revenues were $6 million higher than June of the prior year. Council Discussion on Community Development Councilman Gray emphasized that new residential developments cost the city in services (streets, police, parks) and that ad valorem taxes alone ($14 million) cannot sustain growth. He argued the city needs a better mix of development (commercial, hotels) rather than relying solely on subdivisions. Councilman Glavin asked about sidewalk requirements in new developments; Creel confirmed they are required by ordinance except in certain topographical situations. Councilman Creel asked about code enforcement land clearance spending and collections from late taxes; Creel noted $260,000 in late tax payments received in June but could not yet allocate to specific parcels due to lack of breakdowns. Key Outcomes - No formal votes taken on the budgets; the meeting was informational. - Council agreed to consider additional revenue options, including increasing fees for recreational facilities and pool memberships, implementing an occupancy tax, and raising ad valorem taxes (previously failed 3-4). - A motion to accept the agenda passed 6-0 (Councilman Marshall absent). - The next budget work session is scheduled for August 4, 2026 (engineering, public works, water and sewer). Councilman Tisdale requested an additional meeting on August 6 or 13 to review the entire budget line by line. - Adjourned without further action.

The Biloxi City Council met on July 21, 2026, to discuss council reports, public comments, code enforcement, and several agenda items. Key topics included drainage and flooding concerns, updates on city projects, and resolutions for bond issuance and loan applications. The meeting also included first readings of three ordinances and a code enforcement hearing regarding a vacant lot. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (items F through T) was approved unanimously on a 7-0 vote after brief discussion. Items included grant acceptances, budget transfers, and street repairs. Councilman Creel clarified that one grant ($275,500) was in addition to existing budget and would require a future budget amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - Ms. Bryant (Floyd Drive resident): Expressed frustration that overgrown drainage blocked by a city wall causes her home to flood with every rain. She stated she lost everything in a prior flood and asked the city to cut the grass immediately. She noted that an engineer had visited but said work would not begin until winter. - Cecilia Dowell (Property manager, Elmwood Apartments): Reported that a wooded area and creek behind Lawrence Street flood with heavy rain, washing out roads and bringing snakes onto the property. She asked for the area to be cleaned or drainage improved. - Rebecca Morrow (St. Baldrick's Foundation): Requested free use of the stage at Ground Zero for the fifth annual Rock the Bald event, citing that funds saved on stage rental could go to childhood cancer research. She noted sponsorship of 11 bands and anticipated 500-1,000 attendees. Council directed her to appropriate contacts. Discussion Items - Council reports: Councilman Creel noted a library open house on August 3 (4-7 p.m. at Margaret Sherry Library). He raised concerns from Taylor Oaks and Lauren Falls residents about flooding from a proposed 219-home subdivision on Pops Ferry Road. Engineering Director Christy clarified that drainage plans are reviewed by the city and state DEQ, and that the new subdivision is in a different drainage basin that won't affect those neighborhoods. Councilman Glavin discussed a potential drainage easement from a developer near Belmont Gardens. - Infrastructure updates: The Bay Vista water line project is nearing completion — asphalt work should finish by end of July or early August, with sod placement ongoing. Councilman Nail reported that a culvert near Pinewood Drive may need clearing; Director Christy agreed to inspect. - Power line upgrades: Coast Electric will conduct system upgrades on July (Thursday, 8 a.m. to noon) on multiple streets including Brazier, Wells, Richard, Wetzel, Bay Cove, Kennedy Lane, and others. Director Christy said she would obtain specifics. - Tourism and community events: Councilman Shoemaker highlighted the 11th annual Gulf Coast Big Rig Truck Show (80+ trucks), a Mississippi Hotel & Lodging Association meeting where sports marketing director Chad Kutchall noted tournaments shifting to Biloxi, and a recent billfish tournament where 2,800 pounds of fish were donated to food banks, police, and fire stations. - Belmont Gardens: Councilman Shoemaker reported that residents, still recovering from prior flooding, are terrified of an approaching storm. The manager is organizing a sandbag-filling event on July (Wednesday) at 871 Motsey Road. - Police/Fire Social Security: Councilman Gray asked why Social Security is not withheld for police and fire. Director Christy explained it was an option voted on in the early 1990s; the city is researching reimplementation, which would require a full vote by police and fire and affect budget. - Code enforcement discussion: For item 2020 Lawrence Street (Elmwood Apartments), the property manager confirmed homeless encampments were present. Councilman Nail said he believed the homeless had left. Councilman Gray made a motion for a 30-day extension, then withdrew it. The hearing was closed without an extension, meaning the city will proceed with cleanup. Key Outcomes - Resolution D (Appointment of bond professionals): Passed on a 4-3 vote. The professionals include bond attorney, underwriter, and issuer's counsel. Funds expected by mid-to-late August. - Resolution E (SRF loan for Walmart Acre water/sewer): Passed unanimously 7-0. The city will request a loan of $1.6 million to match a $5 million grant for Phase 1 of the Walmart Acre improvements. A second $5 million grant for the remainder is pending. - First readings of three ordinances: Amendments to municipal facilities, land development ordinance (tree committee and protection), and leisure and recreation districts were all introduced with motions and seconds. - Consent agenda: Approved unanimously. - Routine agenda: Approved 7-0 with Councilman Creel abstaining from Curry Johnson invoices. - Code enforcement hearings: Most properties were either resolved or hearings closed without extension. For 2020 Lawrence Street, no extension was granted, so the city will proceed with cleanup at the owner's cost.

The Biloxi City Council met on July 21, 2026, for a budget workshop focusing on the legal department, port division, and fire department. The meeting included reviews of proposed budgets, staffing concerns, and a presentation on a resort development proposal for East Biloxi. Key discussions centered on revenue challenges, potential cuts, and the need for future growth planning. Legal Department - Mr. Lekich presented the legal department's budget, noting a roughly 3% increase in services and charges. Councilman Creel clarified that a $24,000 grant for center-through-nine violence was not budgeted because its future availability is uncertain; if it becomes available next year, a budget amendment would be required. Councilman Tisdale questioned whether the department’s $624,000 budget had been updated after a recent $200,000 amendment, raising the actual figure to $824,000. Mr. Lekich confirmed the discrepancy was due to the document being pulled in June, and the net effect was approximately a wash. Port Division - Ms. Johnson presented the port division’s budget. Councilman Tisdale and Councilman Gray praised her staff for outstanding work, especially during the recent Billfish tournament, and noted positive comments from visitors. Councilman Creel asked about line items 6830 and 6899 (transportation equipment and reserved), which were clarified as vehicles and equipment. The increase in salaries (item 6010) was due to transferring bridge tenders from public works to the port, considered a better fit. A decrease in salary and wages was attributed to a retirement and replacement at a lower salary. Garbage adjustment costs were previously coded to the general fund but will now be split to the port. Fire Department - Chief Geyser presented the fire department’s budget. The department is currently operating with 162 firefighters (down from 172 in 2017) and faces a proposed reduction of three positions to 159, which would leave staffing at about 53 per shift—very close to the minimum daily staffing of 46. The chief noted that this could lead to increased overtime. Councilman Creel questioned the reduction in vehicle outside force (item 6610), attributed to a reverse from an insurance claim. Software costs were reduced by moving $35,000 to a fire rebate fund. The chief stated he has been requesting 18 additional firefighters for years (at an estimated cost of $71,000 each, or about $1.2 million total) to adequately staff shifts and maintain NFPA standards (17 firefighters on scene for a structure fire). Councilman Tisdale noted that future development, especially north of the city, will require more firefighters and law enforcement, and that maintaining a fire rating of 2 (versus 3) is critical for commercial insurance premiums. Key Outcomes - The legal department’s budget was discussed with no formal vote taken; it remains under consideration. - The port division’s budget was discussed with no formal vote taken; it remains under consideration. - The fire department’s budget was discussed with no formal vote taken; it remains under consideration. The chief expressed concern about staffing levels and the need for additional positions. - Councilman Creel emphasized the need to explore revenue opportunities, such as a full-time grant writer or commission-based grant services, and to task revenue-generating departments with increasing income. - A presentation by Mr. Marshall proposed the establishment of a resort development in East Biloxi, described as a working document and framework for future discussion. No vote was taken. - The meeting was adjourned on a 7-0 vote after the motion was withdrawn and reintroduced.

The Biloxi City Council met on July 21, 2026, to discuss preparations for Tropical Storm Bertha, various municipal projects, and community updates. The meeting included public recognition of city employees, departmental reports, and council reports.

The Biloxi City Council met on July 14, 2026, to receive the fiscal year 2025 audit report and begin departmental budget discussions for fiscal year 2027. The meeting highlighted the city's financial health, with an unmodified audit opinion, but also revealed significant concerns about service reductions due to a proposed budget that cuts $5.5 million in general fund expenditures and eliminates 25 vacant positions. The police department's chief warned that the current budget proposal would force a reduction in services and jeopardize public safety. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Ruske, director of the Harrison County Library System, presented a one-page summary of proposed funding cuts from 10% to 50% and their potential impact on library services. She noted that she had emailed the budget requests to the council and would attend the budget hearing. Discussion Items - Audit Presentation (FY2025): Maria Saylor, audit director for ABL, presented the fiscal year 2025 audit. The city received an unmodified opinion (the highest opinion). Key financial highlights: governmental activities net position of $193 million; business-type activities (water, sewer, port) net position of $395 million; general fund unassigned balance of $11.5 million (including $4 million in the economic development fund). The audit noted two federal award findings (incomplete prior-year schedule of federal awards and lack of documented policies) and two state law noncompliance findings (state preference law not considered, and bidding opened before 15 working days). The water and sewer fund had an operating loss of $9.1 million, but after removing depreciation and amortization, there was a gain of approximately $1 million. The city's total capital assets increased by about $21 million in governmental activities. - Budget Overview: Rick Weaver, Chief Administrative Officer, presented the first draft of the FY2027 budget. The proposed budget reduces general fund expenditures by nearly $5.5 million, primarily through eliminating 25 vacant positions (no layoffs). The employee count is proposed to drop from 602 to 577. The budget aims to match revenues and expenses, but council members expressed concern that service frequency and quality would decline. The mayor noted that the city has been unable to fill vacancies for years, and the proposal reflects that reality. - Police Department Budget: Chief Everett and finance officer Laurence Slater presented the police department's budget. The department cut $2.9 million from its target to meet the proposed $23.9 million budget. This includes reducing patrol vehicles from 11 to 3, eliminating a proactive unit for unsheltered populations, and cutting positions. The chief stated that the department cannot sustain current operations with these cuts and that the viability of the police department is on the line. He noted that 80 marked patrol vehicles are in service, 13 of which are nine years or older. The department currently has 132 sworn officers; the ideal number for adequate service is 147. Hiring is slow due to competition from other agencies. Council members discussed grant opportunities (e.g., MOHS, COPS hiring program) and alternative service delivery methods (e.g., video calls for non-emergency calls). The chief expressed that morale is low due to forced overtime and staffing shortages. - Legislative Department Budget: Council President Glavin and the council discussed the legislative budget, which was cut by $40,756. Councilman Schumacher raised concerns about cuts to postage for ward meetings, travel to Jackson and Washington, and training. Councilman Marshall praised the legislative branch for its fiscal responsibility and argued against further cuts. - Administration Department Budget: The administration budget was reduced by $281,000. Savings included ending the lease on the post office, reducing consultant fees, and lower appraisal costs. Increases in health insurance premiums were noted. Council members discussed the rising cost of software licenses (estimated $2.4 million annually) and utilities. The city is exploring solar street lights and reducing the electric bill. The administration also cut funding for the city newsletter (B News) from $264,000 to $25,000, retaining only mandatory mailers. Councilman Creel proposed a commission-based advertising model to keep the newsletter self-sustaining, which the administration said they would consider. - Executive Department Budget: The executive budget was reduced by $311,000, primarily from cutting B News. The budget for conferences and travel was significantly reduced. The mayor's office noted that state retirement (PERS) contributions are increasing by half a percent per year for the next two years. - Non-Departmental Items: The council requested that the mayor provide his thoughts on non-departmental allocations and that a list of requests that met the June 30 deadline be provided separately from late requests. Council members also discussed options for emailing water bills and using QR codes to reduce mailing costs. Key Outcomes - The council voted 6-0 (with Mr. Marshall absent) to approve the agenda. - The audit was presented for informational purposes; formal acceptance will occur at a future council meeting with a resolution. - No votes were taken on the budget; it is a first draft subject to revisions. The council will continue budget discussions in subsequent meetings. - The council discussed potential revenue-generating ideas, including grants, private security for events, advertising in B News, and solar lighting. No formal action was taken. - The meeting adjourned with a motion by Mr. Creel and second by Mr. Nail.

The Biloxi City Council held its regular meeting on July 8, 2026, lasting approximately two hours. The meeting featured a major debate over a general obligation bond, updates on tropical storm Arthur response and grass cutting, and extensive public testimony on flooding and the lack of a grocery store in East Biloxi. The council also approved leadership appointments and routine agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - Myra Bryant (resident of Floyd Drive) described severe flooding on June 19, 2026, during Tropical Storm Arthur. She stated that over a foot of water entered her home, forcing her family to escape through a back window, and that the fire department marked them as evacuated but never returned. She reported sewage coming from toilets and said she lost all belongings. She criticized the city’s drainage system, noting that the home was not in a flood zone and did not flood during Hurricane Katrina. - Kenneth Myers (corner of Honeywood Drive and Floyd) argued that a neglected drainage ditch was a major cause of widespread flooding on Floyd Drive. He stated that the ditch has not been maintained for years and that in 1994 a court mandated its maintenance. He pleaded for immediate ditch cleaning, not waiting until winter. His daughter Wendy Myers added that her father’s wife (stage six dementia) had to be moved out of state for safety, and that the family is living in a camper. - Hope Spencer (returning East Biloxi resident) spoke in favor of a grocery store in East Biloxi, calling it a need for seniors and families. She asked the council to prioritize funding and partnerships to bring a grocery store back to the area. - Several pastors and community members (Kenneth Hollins, Carolyn Wilborn, Nia Sche, Luther Fairley, etc.) urged the council to invest in East Biloxi. They requested a grocery store and a recreational facility for youth, stating that 20% of Biloxi residents live in a food desert. Some spoke against the council’s priorities, accusing the body of neglecting East Biloxi for years. - Janet Kavanaugh thanked the council for new scoreboards at the ballpark, reporting that the 12-year-old youth team won the district championship. - Joseph Lesalvia (Ward 1 resident) raised concerns about train horn noise and frequent accidents at rail crossings. He proposed supplementary safety measures (four‑quadrant gates or medians) to create quiet zones and improve safety, noting a collision a week prior that injured two people. - A statement from former councilman Eric Dickey read by Deborah McGee urged a vote in favor of the bond issue. Discussion Items Storm Response and Grass Cutting Update Director Labata reported that the city is behind on grass cutting due to storm response. In the two weeks since Tropical Storm Arthur, public works completed 157 storm‑related work orders, set up barricades for two special events (Scraping the Coast and Fourth of July), and flushed drains. Crews are now returning to routine mowing. She noted that major roads and parks are being caught up, and a crew of three employees plus five temps is working on the cemetery, which has been neglected. Appointments - Paul A. Tisdale was appointed President of the Biloxi City Council by unanimous vote (7‑0). - Jamie Creel was appointed Vice President of the Biloxi City Council by unanimous vote (7‑0). Conditional Use Approval for Multifamily Buildings A resolution granting conditional use approval for two multifamily buildings at 245 Porter Avenue and 1088 Judge Sekul Avenue passed 7‑0. The project will create 12 new units and restore an existing eight‑plex, for a total of 20 units. General Obligation Bond Resolution (Up to $13 Million) The council extensively debated a resolution to issue general obligation bonds. The initial amount on the agenda was up to $13 million. Councilman Marshall moved to amend to $18 million, arguing that East Biloxi needs land acquisition for a grocery store. After several failed amendments ($18M failed, $5M failed, $10M failed), a motion for $16.5 million passed on a 4‑3 vote. The final amended resolution for $16.5 million also passed 4‑3. The bond funds are intended for city‑wide infrastructure projects including roofs, generators, drainage, and other critical repairs. Mayor Gillich stated that the money can be used as match for grants and that inflation (7% annually) makes borrowing at 4% prudent. City Attorney noted that GO bond money cannot be used to acquire land for a grocery store but can be used for street, sidewalk, and lighting improvements that might attract a grocer. Several council members expressed support for a grocery store but preferred other financing tools such as TIF bonds. Key Outcomes - First Appointments confirmed (7‑0). - Conditional use approval granted (7‑0) for multifamily buildings on Porter Avenue and Judge Sekul Avenue. - General obligation bond of $16.5 million passed on a 4‑3 vote. (Vote breakdown not explicitly stated but appeared to be Marshall, Gray, Nail, and one other in favor; Creel, Tisdale, Shoemaker, Glavin opposed? The transcript shows a 4‑3 vote twice. Exact roll call not provided.) - The council approved the consent agenda and multiple code enforcement cases, granting a two‑week extension for one property. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of Nolan Wells, Robert Johnson, and Anthony Smith. - A special meeting was announced for July 15, 2026 at 1:30 PM to receive the annual audit and budget report.

Astronaut Fred Hayes Memorial Highway

The Biloxi City Council held a workshop on May 19, 2026, to discuss a proposed text amendment to the Land Development Ordinance (LDO) allowing single-family detached dwellings and single-family detached zero lot line dwellings in the Planned Development Commercial (PDC) overlay district. The workshop was chaired by Councilor Tisdale. Planning staff member Jerry presented the rationale, noting that single-family uses were already permitted in all standard commercial zones and most other planned development districts, and their omission from PDC appeared to be an oversight. Council members asked questions about scope, density, past projects, and potential tax implications. No public comments were heard. The workshop concluded with a motion to adjourn approved on a 5-0 vote. Discussion Items - Rationale for Amendment: Jerry explained that single-family detached dwellings are allowed by right in every standard commercial zone (LB, NB, CB, RB, DT, WF) and in PDR, PDTND, and PDI districts, but were missing from the PDC use table. The proposed amendment would add single-family detached and zero lot line dwellings to PDC, allowing residential elements in commercial developments. Density, setbacks, and other standards would be written into a master plan and approved by the Planning Commission and City Council. - Scope Clarification: Councilor Creel asked whether the amendment included Mississippi cottages as well. Jerry confirmed it covers only single-family detached and zero lot line dwellings, not Mississippi cottages. Councilors also questioned whether the amendment should extend to PDGE (gaming) and PDHB (hospitality) districts. Jerry noted that gaming establishments have distance requirements from residential uses and hospitality districts involve 24-hour operations, so the amendment is limited to PDC. - Past Precedent: Councilor Marshall referenced the Carl Breeze project on Highway 90, which started as townhomes for rent and later converted to for-sale units via the same process. He observed that while the process was followed, the public may view such conversions as an end-run. Other council members acknowledged that the council ultimately decides if a change is appropriate. - Zoning Board Function: Jerry clarified that the Planning Commission is a recommendatory body (except for preliminary subdivision plats), while the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals is a quasi-judicial body with final decisions subject to court appeal. The same individuals serve on both bodies. - Property Valuation: A council member asked whether selling individual lots versus renting a single complex affects city tax revenue. Jerry speculated that subdivided lots might be assessed higher than a rental complex, but could not provide a definitive answer. Key Outcomes - The council held a workshop to discuss the amendment; no formal vote on the amendment itself was taken during the workshop. - The workshop concluded with a motion to adjourn, approved on a 5-0 vote.