Public Meetings - Biloxi, Mississippi

The Biloxi City Council held its regular meeting on August 26, 2025, at approximately 5:30 pm (inferred from council reports). The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a proposed gas station rezoning, employee health insurance, municipal facility rental policies, and departmental reports. A special meeting to discuss the budget was scheduled to follow the regular meeting. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously voted to suspend the rules and add a resolution (5GG) accepting better DCI emergency services and authorizing a contract for debris clearing and preparation for hurricane disaster. The agenda as amended was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Cross (11469 Road 537, Biloxi) spoke in opposition to the zoning amendment from residential estate restricted to community business for the WC4 property (applicant Mr. Verma). He cited drainage concerns: his property receives 100% of the drainage from the southwest sector of I-10 and Shriners Boulevard via a man-made watercourse with no recorded easements. He also noted that the engineer stated up to six feet of fill would be brought in, which he calculated would require 1,500 dump trucks of fill (29,000 cubic yards) for the three-acre parcel. He warned against directing storm surge and creating a 24-hour service station. - William Graves (11671 River Estate Circle) opposed the same gas station proposal. He cited potential hazardous waste runoff (transmission fluid, brake fluid), storm surge risk (Katrina surge went over the interstate), and lack of proper notification (he received no mail and only learned of the proposal by following the city council docket). He also noted that the existing subdivision is restricted and that a precedent was set by a prior residential estate parcel on the street. - Lori Massey (Director, Mississippi Coast Crime Stoppers) requested $5,000 from the city to support Crime Stoppers. She cited recent arrests in Biloxi made possible by anonymous tips, including a felony suspect from Jackson County and a vehicle theft suspect from Texas. She emphasized the cost savings and crime prevention benefits of the program. - Kimberly Woodward (Manager, Belmont Gardens, 871 Motzi Road) described flooding at her senior living facility. She reported that 13 units flooded in July 2025 due to a drainage ditch (creek) that collects runoff from surrounding public companies and new construction. She stated they have been asking for help for over eight years. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: The Mayor announced upcoming events: a Katrina 20th anniversary commemoration on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10 am at the Biloxi Visitor Center, and a Sports Hall of Fame event on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 3 pm at the Civic Center. A proclamation was read for National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (September 2025). The proclamation noted that more than 15,000 children under 19 will be diagnosed with cancer in the US in 2025, including more than 120 in Mississippi. A childhood cancer survivor, Rebecca, spoke about a successful fundraising event on August 17, 2025, which raised triple the amount of previous years, and urged the city to “go gold” for September. - Council Reports: - Ward 1 & 2 (Mr. Gray): Announced the 4th Annual Gov Coast Shrimp and Cook Off and Festival (September 5-7, 2025) and a town hall meeting for Wards 1 and 2 on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 6 pm. - Ward 3 (Mr. Neil): Thanked staff for improvements at Hill Park and invited residents to call him with any issues. - Ward 4 (Mr. Creel): Followed up on Memorial Hospital suspending labor and delivery services. He spoke with Mr. Kim League Ghostman, who agreed to use the term “suspending” rather than “terminating” and hoped to restore services within three years, citing staffing issues. - Ward 5 (Mr. Tisner): Suggested recognizing retiring city employees at council meetings. Announced a ward meeting on September 8, 2025, at 5:30 pm at the Snyder Recreation Center. Raised concerns about an easement behind Carter Road, noise from Coliseum west gate openings after concerts, sinkholes on Pine Grove Avenue, and water line breaks in Edgewater Estates (a boil water notice occurred on the weekend of August 23-24, 2025). He also requested allocation of about 15% of opioid settlement funds (estimated $70,000 total) for youth court Judge Dickinson. - Ward 7 (Mr. Shoemaker): Requested improved grass cutting by public works in Ward 7. - Ward 6 (Mr. Marshall): Requested “no dogs allowed” signs at Bush Park, discussed complaints about people hanging around at a park (likely Day Park), and sought resolution of overgrowth, trash piles, and parking issues on Sherry Lane and Puff Alley. He requested that the city add council members to the distribution list for the Development Review Committee (DRC) agenda and be notified of any permits or business licenses in East Biloxi. He also announced his first ward meeting for Ward 2 on September 18, 2025, at 5:30 pm at the Grid Center. He gave a personal shout-out to his wife for their anniversary. - Councilman Creel (Ward 4): Acknowledged the tragic death of young athlete Marcus Dickey and requested a moment of closure in his memory. He asked for an update on the dredging project (barge switch caused a two-week delay). He thanked the colonel for budget discussions, noting that approximately $4 million was trimmed from the budget. - Policy Agenda: - Ordinance Amending Chapter 2, Article 14 (Municipal Facilities): Presented by Peter. The ordinance makes rental rules more friendly to groups, allows a 30-day cancellation and 10% right-of-first refusal, and removes outdated equipment rental items. The old brick house and Sanger were removed from the list. Equipment rental for 2026 is waived. Rentals can be made three years minus a day. The ordinance passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Resolution Denying Zoning Amendment (8275 West Oaklawn Road): The council voted unanimously to deny the request to change zoning from residential estate restricted to community business for a proposed gas station. Councilman Shoemaker noted the room was filled with neighbors in opposition, citing drainage issues and strong community concerns. Councilman Tisdale added that there is no commercial zoning south of West Oaklawn, two other gas stations exist within a mile, and no substantive change in the neighborhood had occurred. The Planning Commission had previously denied the request 11-0. - Health Insurance Resolutions: - Resolution authorizing self-funded employee group health insurance (with Healthgram, Rx Mississippi Physician Care Network, and Unity Ring) passed unanimously. There is no increase in employee premiums; a spousal surcharge of $60/month remains if the spouse declines coverage from their own employer. The city will fund approximately $9.9 million with a risk corridor of $1.5 million. Three of four “laser” liabilities were removed, saving approximately $900,000 in liability. - Resolution authorizing Colonial Life and Accident Insurance Company to provide a cafeteria plan (voluntary life and long-term disability) passed unanimously. - Resolution authorizing a service agreement with Medical Analysis for acute health care benefits (no copay for employees) passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously, with the following exceptions: Mr. Tisdale voted no on items T, U, V, W, X, Y (fee waivers and deposits, citing budget constraints). Mr. Marshall abstained from item P (unknown, but he requested the abstention be recorded). - Code Enforcement Hearings: All 26 cases were resolved or closed, with three properties still in violation (no one appeared): 367 Forest Avenue (Sophia L. Pham), 371 Belvedere Circle (David M. and Abigail Shaper), and 590 Beach Boulevard (Extended Stay LLC). All were closed. - Routine Agenda: Approved. Included a report that $751,000 from MEMA is in step 305 of the approval process, expected to arrive by the first or second September meeting. Also, flag football was approved for ages 10 and under, tackle for 11-12. - Moment of Closure: The council unanimously approved a motion to close the meeting in memory of Marcus Dickey, a young athlete who died in a tragic accident.

The Biloxi City Council held a special meeting on August 20, 2025, to discuss a potential millage increase for fiscal year 2026. The primary topic was a proposal to raise the city's millage rate by 3 mills (from 30.1 to 33.1 mills), which would generate approximately $2 million annually to close the gap between revenues and expenses. The council debated the necessity, impact, and alternatives to the increase, including using fund balance, cutting expenses, and investing in economic development. After extensive discussion, a motion to authorize advertising a 3-mill increase failed by a vote of 3-3-1. The council then adjourned. Discussion Items - Mayor's Opening Remarks: The mayor explained that the proposed 3-mill increase would generate about $2 million in additional revenue, helping to balance the budget without drawing down reserves. He noted that the city's current millage rate is 30.1 mills, and a 3-mill increase would bring it to 33.1 mills. The increase would cost a homeowner approximately $10 per $100,000 of assessed value per year (or $60 per year for a $200,000 home). - Councilman Tisdale's Questions: Councilman Tisdale asked about capital projects, bond obligations, and fund balance. The administration confirmed no new capital projects are planned for FY2026, but a $10.3 million bond is being considered for capital replacements. The general fund's projected ending fund balance for FY2025 is about $12.5 million, and total unrestricted fund balance across all funds is approximately $26 million. Tisdale also raised questions about cutting expenses, such as consolidating the engineering and public works director positions and reducing property maintenance costs. - Councilman Marshall's Concerns: Councilman Marshall argued that the millage increase should be paired with investment in economic development, particularly in East Biloxi, which has received over $200 million in infrastructure improvements. He proposed adding a fourth mill specifically for economic development to generate future revenue and reduce tax burdens. The mayor countered that economic development is already part of multiple departments' missions and that the 3-mill increase is needed to fund current operations, primarily personnel costs (70% of expenses). - Councilman Shoemaker's Opposition: Councilman Shoemaker opposed the increase, citing high insurance and housing costs for residents. He suggested finding cuts elsewhere, such as reducing the federal building lease, reviewing water/sewer and port fund performance, and doing more work in-house rather than contracting out. - Councilman Gray's Perspective: Councilman Gray questioned whether the fund balance could absorb the gap without harming the city's bond rating. The administration indicated that a $2 million drawdown from the $26 million unrestricted fund balance likely would not significantly affect the rating. - Councilman Glavin's Comments: Councilman Glavin noted that the council had known about the advertising deadline for more than three days and expressed difficulty supporting a tax increase without new capital projects. He also highlighted the cumulative burden on residents from rising insurance and potential school district millage increases. - Councilman Creel: Councilman Creel voted no on the motion, aligning with the opposition. Key Outcomes - Motion to Authorize Advertising a 3-Mill Increase: Councilman Tisdale moved to authorize the mayor to advertise a proposed 3-mill increase (from 30.1 to 33.1 mills). Councilman Nale seconded. Councilman Marshall proposed an amendment to raise the advertised amount to 4 mills, but the amendment failed for lack of a second. The original motion then failed by a vote of 3-3-1: Yes – Gray, Nale, Tisdale; No – Creel, Shoemaker, Glavin; Abstain – Marshall. The motion did not pass. - Adjournment: The council unanimously voted to adjourn (with Marshall abstaining initially, then voting yes). No further action was taken on the millage or budget at this meeting.

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The Biloxi City Council met on August 19, 2025, to discuss a wide range of topics including park maintenance, homeless encampments, a pending garbage fee increase, and a resolution opposing the privatization of oyster reefs. The meeting opened with the mayor's report on a technology center groundbreaking at Keesler Air Force Base and a presentation from the Mississippi Tobacco Free Coalition. Council members raised constituent concerns about park conditions, public safety, and infrastructure delays. The council unanimously passed a resolution opposing oyster reef leasing after hearing testimony from a commercial fisheries advocate. Several consent agenda items were approved, and code enforcement cases were addressed. The meeting adjourned in memory of two notable Biloxians. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was passed unanimously, with all six council members voting in favor and no exceptions noted. - A routine docket item (vendor 6169, $815 legal expense) was removed by motion and voted separately, then the amended routine agenda passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Freddie Frick (369 Rayner Street) complained about mud and debris washing from the IP property onto his street, lack of sidewalk and gutter on Rayner, and speeding traffic. He suggested installing a three-way stop at Strawberry and Rayner and requested a town hall meeting with Elliott Properties regarding the empty lot. - Unidentified woman (1075 Division Street) reported that city workers skip mowing the neutral grounds and ditch along her property near Keesler Gate, despite being told the city would maintain them. She stated she is 70 years old and unable to keep up, and asked for permanent concrete or relief. She also noted a citation she received for not mowing. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Announced the groundbreaking of a $60 million cybersecurity and technology center at Keesler, with the governor and Mississippi State officials present. The project is expected to train 7,000 people per year and expand the base. - Tobacco-Free Coalition Presentation: Bianca Booth of New Beginnings Ministries presented data from a Mississippi State University study showing hospital admissions for tobacco-related illnesses are 12% lower in counties with smoke-free ordinances. She noted that only Gulfport has such an ordinance in Harrison County and asked to give periodic updates and for the city to appoint a liaison to the coalition board. - Parks Maintenance: Councilman Jamie Lee reported on Claire Hornsby Park – playground repairs are pending assessment, latches on gates are broken, and parents tie them with rope. Point Cadet playground and splash pad updates are stalled due to funding. Councilman Creel raised issues at Henry Bay Park: fencing and gates need repair, bathroom doors are being reinforced with steel, litter (bottle caps, clothing, chairs) needs cleanup. Hiller Park needs new bathrooms and removal of bleachers; a dog park was suggested. Skate park noise complaints on I-110 bridge will be addressed with signs and time limits. - Homeless Situation: Councilman Marshall expressed frustration with homeless individuals sleeping in parks (Lighthouse, Hornsby) and under Division Street. He requested an ordinance or resolution with Chief Miller. The mayor responded that public safety is the priority, referencing an assault that occurred, and noted that Mercy Cross Center has relocated 136 homeless individuals in 18 months. He emphasized that the issue is primarily a mental health problem. Councilman Creel added that concrete solutions include a permanent overnight shelter. - Infrastructure: Camellia Street paving is delayed four weeks due to subcontractor (Warren Paving) being on another project. Beauvoir Road also affected. Councilman Neil requested information on grass-cutting crews in East Biloxi and asked for a list of responsibilities. Councilman Creel noted Broadwater Golf Course code enforcement is ongoing. - Memorial Hospital: Councilman Creel reported meeting with a board member about the suspension of labor and delivery services at Memorial Biloxi. He stressed the importance of being able to say one was born in Biloxi. The board member indicated it may be a temporary suspension and that Keesler Medical Center is collaborating to restore OB/GYN services. - Amtrak Celebration: Council members praised the August event that brought confetti and bands along the route, with tourism ready to welcome visitors. - Bridge Lights: Councilman Creel raised the issue that light repairs on the Biloxi-Ocean Springs bridge require 10% or more lights out before action. He suggested coordinating with Ocean Springs to rent a state truck for quicker repairs, rather than expensive contractors. The mayor said warranty work may be due. - Tidelands Grants: Councilman Tisdale recommended applying for grants to improve Churchill Avenue Ditch and to fill gaps in the concrete boardwalk from De Buys Road to Broadwater Marina, aiming for 17,000 linear feet of seawall. - Oyster Reef Leasing Resolution: Councilman Creel delivered a strong statement opposing DMR's plan to lease up to 80% of oyster reefs, calling it a threat to public heritage and livelihoods. Ryan Bradley, executive director of Mississippi Commercial Fisheries United, testified that 2019 freshwater releases caused 96% oyster mortality, but reefs are recovering. He noted a court issued a preliminary injunction halting leases the previous day. The council passed the resolution unanimously. - Consent Agenda Clarification: Councilman Creel clarified that item 5A (boat trailer parking at harbor) expands existing 18 spaces, not adds 18, to accommodate trailers without overhang. Tree relocation costs are part of the bid. Key Outcomes - Resolution in Opposition to Oyster Reef Leasing passed unanimously (7-0). - First reading of ordinance to amend Chapter 2, Article 14 (municipal facilities) moved forward. - Resolution of Notice of Intent to amend garbage collection fees passed unanimously. Residential and commercial rates will increase by $1.25/month to $25.50 if approved at the next meeting. - Consent agenda approved unanimously, with exception that one legal expense item was removed and voted separately. - Routine docket approved as amended (unanimous with one recusal). - Code enforcement extension granted to Adam Brown (6308 Shady Creek) until September 23, 2025. - Several code enforcement cases were closed or resolved. - Meeting adjourned in memory of Brenda Johnston (30-year city employee) and Peter Roy Elder (six-time World Series winner).

The Biloxi City Council held a special meeting on August 12, 2025, to continue reviewing the proposed 2025-2026 municipal budget. The meeting focused on the legislative budget, water and sewer fund, and public works budget. Council members discussed revenue shortfalls, rising costs (including PERS increases), and potential cuts or revenue enhancements, including a possible millage increase. Key deadlines were set for budget approval by September 9, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the citizen comment period. Discussion Items - Council Reports: Councilmember Crew raised concerns about brown grass from herbicide use. Councilmember Tisdale requested additional "do not block intersection" signs at Westview Drive and Lakeview Drive on Pass Road to improve traffic safety. Councilmember Schumacher provided an update on the Brazier Bayou dredging project: a 1–2 week pause is expected as the contractor switches to a small barge. - Legislative Budget: Carrie, the clerk, presented changes: moving audit costs ($12,900) from legislative to administrative budget, increasing postage to $8,500 (due to rate hikes), and reducing advertising and convention funds. Council had no objections. - Water and Sewer Budget (Enterprise Fund): Director Weaver noted that water rate increases (3% annually through 2027) are not keeping pace with expenses. An estimated deficit of $1 million may occur, partly offset by pending FEMA reimbursements ($600,000). Weaver requested additional time to evaluate fees and rates before proposing adjustments. Council discussed the need to balance the fund and potentially increase rates beyond the scheduled 3%. - Public Works Budget: Council discussed high vacancy rates (15%, with about 61 employees) and the challenge of maintaining services. The street sweeping contract costs $55,000–$60,000 annually (budgeted $75,000). Council debated leasing vehicles versus outright purchases to spread costs; the current budget includes a $93,000 increase for machinery/equipment transportation. Building maintenance proposes adding six in-house positions (plumbing, HVAC, electrical) to reduce outsourcing. Electricity costs increased $91,500 due to new streetlights and the Bay Bridge lighting. - General Budget Challenges: Councilmember Tisdale highlighted rising costs (PERS increase of $320,000, inflation, vehicle costs, tariffs) while revenues are flat. Director Weaver stated the city needs to cut $2–3 million to balance the budget. Options include leasing, bonds for capital items, and a potential millage increase (publication deadline 3 weeks). Council noted that historical vacancy savings ($2 million) could offset some shortfalls, but full employment would require additional funds. - Non-Departmental Requests: Council agreed to limit presentations to 4 minutes each at the next workshop to expedite the process. Key Outcomes - Next Workshop Scheduled: Motion approved to hold the next budget workshop on August 19, 2025, after the regular council meeting (moved by Mr. Gray, seconded by Mr. Tisdale, carried). - Administration to Propose Cuts: The mayor’s team, led by Weaver, will develop specific spending reductions and leasing options to present at the next workshop. - Millage Increase Consideration: Council may consider a millage increase; the legal publication deadline is approximately three weeks from the meeting date. - Budget Approval Deadline: The final budget must be approved by September 9, 2025. - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn carried (moved by Mr. Tisdale, seconded by Mr. Shoemaker).

The Biloxi City Council met on August 6, 2025, at 1:54 AM UTC (local time evening of August 5/early August 6). The meeting opened with a prayer by Councilman Creel and the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Mayor. The agenda was approved 6-0. The meeting covered the Mayor's report on international trade and a sister city, council reports on homeless encampments and park improvements, citizen comments, and several policy items including a zoning change for a retirement community, amendments to municipal facility booking rules for Mardi Gras groups, short-term rental approval, and adoption of the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan. The consent agenda, code enforcement cases, and routine agenda were also handled. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved by Mr. Tislow, seconded by Mr. Creel, passed 6-0. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously with discussion on items including Nativity School drainage (Item F) and the Sanger Theatre project (Item K). The Mayor reported that the Sanger Theatre is near completion with carpet installation pending and that a 1972 Steinway concert grand piano was discovered and restored. No exceptions were taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Rebecca Muarrow (St. Baldricks Foundation): Announced the "Rock the Bald" event on August 17, 2025, at Ground Zero, raising money for childhood cancer research. Encouraged council support and noted that Biloxi police officer's son is a patient. - Deborah McGee (201 Keller Avenue): Expressed concerns about unauthorized activity (hair cutting, cooking, sleeping) at the Beck's Park house maintained by the Second Link. Asked for increased police patrols. - Lori Silvestro (181 Iris): Thanked Councilman Nail, Assistant Chief Chris, and Roy Anderson for responding to and clearing an encampment behind the old school property. - Charles Forbes (39 Overbroach Road): Raised an issue with a drainage ditch installed outside its easement, causing erosion and loss of property. Stated the city will face an expense to fix it. - Philip Frisbee (Pitcher Point Investments): Identified himself as representing the applicant for agenda item 4A (zoning amendment). - Annette Agriguard (Ward 2 resident): Called for community ownership of property upkeep and asked about grant money for home repairs. Questioned the number of owner-occupied homes versus rentals in her ward. Discussion Items - Zoning Map Amendment (15039 Lorraine Road): Ordinance to change zoning from RS10 to RB to allow a certified retirement community. Director Creel explained the relocation of the retirement community to the north. Councilman Shoemaker supported, noting benefits. Councilman Tisdale noted the planning commission approval. The mayor mentioned future road construction (east-west and north-south connectors) to handle growth. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance to Amend Chapter 2, Article 14 (Municipal Facilities): Pertaining to booking rules for Mardi Gras organizations. Councilman Nail proposed amendments: a right of first refusal clause (lesser of 10% of rental or $100) for future dates, and rental due 90 days before the event. Sandra Covode (Mardi Gras representative) voiced support for the amendments. The amendments were adopted, and the ordinance as amended passed unanimously. - Resolution for Short-Term Rental (132 Duke Street): Conditional use approval. Director Creel described the property as surrounded by existing short-term rentals. Passed 6-1. - Resolution Adopting 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan and 2025 Action Plan: Required for CDBG grant funding. Councilman Tisdale noted the deadline and that the plan can be substantially amended later. Passed unanimously. - Resolution for Just Compensation for East Biloxi East-West Neighborhood Access Road: Two parcels. Councilman Tisdale linked it to closing railroad crossings and improving first responder access. Councilman Nail raised concerns about funding source, but Director Creel clarified the $38,000 is already in the current CDBG budget. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Unanimously, including authorization for work on the Nativity School drain and transfer of funds for the Sanger Theatre. - Zoning Change Approved: Unanimous vote to rezone portions of 15039 Lorraine Road from RS10 to RB for a retirement community. - Municipal Facility Ordinance Amended and Approved: Unanimous vote to include a right of first refusal (10% or $100, whichever less) and rental due 90 days before the event. - Short-Term Rental Approved: 6-1 vote for conditional use at 132 Duke Street. - Consolidated Plan and Action Plan Adopted: Unanimous. - Compensation for Road Parcels Approved: Unanimous. - Code Enforcement: Several cases resolved; extensions granted for 230 Baptist Alley (to September 2) and 0 Bayside Drive (to August 19). Cases closed for non-attendance: 1195 Judge Sinkle Avenue, 114 Cedar Street, 185 Jefferson Davis Avenue, 226 Iberville Drive, 274 Dewey Circle, and 218 Elmer Street. - Routine Agenda Approved: Unanimous. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion by Mr. Creel, second by Mr. Shoemaker, passed unanimously.

The Biloxi City Council conducted a budget workshop to review the fiscal year 2025-2026 municipal budget. Presentations were given on health insurance renewal, the Community Development department budget, and the Ports and Harbors department budget. No formal votes were taken on budget items. Discussion Items - Health Insurance: Cy Easterling, working with the insurance committee, reported a flat renewal for the city's self-funded health insurance plan. Total projected cost is approximately $9.96 million, matching the previous year's projection of $9.97 million. Administrative costs remained flat, but specific stop-loss premium increased 17% ($250,000), offset by a 14-person reduction in plan participants and lower projected claims. Dental, vision, and life insurance rates are unchanged, with no increase in employee contributions. The committee noted $530,000 in documented pharmacy cost savings through a new PBM and programs. Initial insurance lasers for high-dollar claimants were presented but are not final; two may be removed and one reduced after clinical review. - Community Development: Director Jerry Weaver requested a $298,000 increase, primarily for the visitor center chiller replacement ($174,000) and audio-visual system replacement ($68,000). Other requests include increasing the city arborist salary from $56,000 to $60,000–$65,000 to attract a qualified ISA-certified arborist (current consulting cost estimated over $100,000/year), two replacement vehicles ($80,000), tree maintenance ($30,000 new line item), signage for historic markers, land clearance for code enforcement (expected to be recouped via special assessments), and a floodplain management software program. The department has 32 full-time positions. Visitor center rental income was $63,000 through July, with $80,000 forecast for the year. Council discussed the necessity of the arborist position and various expense details. - Ports and Harbors: Director Christina Johnson presented a budget similar to the prior year, with major changes being three replacement trucks and a replacement lawnmower. The port is an enterprise fund; fiscal year revenue through June was approximately $3.7 million from slip rentals, building leases, and special events. Slip occupancy ranges from 57% to 92% across harbors. Council discussed harbor operations: training for harbor masters on emergency procedures (e.g., sinking boats), needed upgrades (bathroom AC, lighting, cameras, trash cans, laundry facilities), charter boat signage policies, and the issue of tournament boat docking—a policy clarification was requested to allow temporary docking during tournaments. The director affirmed that a harbor committee is not needed but is open to volunteer input. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. - No budget-related votes were taken; the workshop served as a discussion forum. - The next budget workshop was scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 1:30 PM. - The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Biloxi City Council met on July 30, 2025, to discuss and act on several agenda items, including the allocation of federal community development block grant (CDBG) funds, conditional use approvals for a restaurant and short-term rentals, an executive session regarding litigation, and approval of a consent agenda containing numerous routine items. Key discussions centered on the process and eligibility for CDBG funds, with council members questioning staff about entitlement city status and the use of funds for low- to moderate-income areas. The meeting concluded with approval of a change order for MEMA-related project costs. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda, which included numerous items such as: - Item K: Resolution for a subscription to employee access enterprise ERP software from Tyler Technologies. The original resolution cited $4,900 for the software, but the contract (Exhibit A) included $3,200 for remote training for a total of $8,100. The council amended the resolution to reflect the total contract amount of $8,100. Motion to amend carried; the consent agenda was then approved with all members voting in favor except one abstention (Mr. Marshall) on the overall consent? (The transcript notes: "Motion carries six with one abstention" earlier on a different item, but the consent vote appears unanimous after amendments.) The software allows online job applications and employee self-service for W-2s and insurance. - Item M: Road repair for Dundee Wood Road, funded 100% by Harrison County. - Item X: Payment of approximately $3,200 to the seafood museum for slip rental during the bullfish classic, offsetting costs for moving boats. - Item FF: Public works project – spending of $60,000 on a building? (Context unclear; Mr. Marshall asked about total spent: $2,914,459.36 from a 2025 line of credit.) - Code enforcement hearings: Many properties were resolved; five properties were closed due to no appearance or continued violation (Ancillary Capital LLC, Felix Fernandez, Robert M. Newton II, Henry Mancini). Discussion Items - CDBG/COVID Funds Allocation: Councilman Marshall urged using federal funds directly for low- to moderate-income residents, noting a deadline for a plan submission on August 15, 2025. Councilman Tuesday assured that the required process (public hearings, comment periods) was followed and emphasized that federal funds have restrictions. Mr. Gore asked staff whether individuals or organizations can apply for CDBG grants; Ms. Pickish and consultant Grace Aram explained that Biloxi is an entitlement city based on its population and historical designation, and that funds flow through the city. Discussion clarified that entitlement status is tied to past population (over 50,000) and demographic factors. The council later voted on a related item (motion carried 6-0 with one abstention – likely Mr. Marshall? The transcript says "Motion carries six with one abstention" earlier in the meeting.) - Conditional Use Approval – Restaurant (Item F): Unanimous approval to allow a coffee shop/cafe in a portion of an existing commercial building at 1400 Leggett Drive (Van Hook Hall). The project includes a handicap ramp; no drive-through. Discussion confirmed no cooking, just a coffee shop. - Short-Term Rentals: Unanimous approval for two short-term rentals: 153 Boyerfield Avenue (surrounded by other short-term rentals) and 115 St. John Avenue (discussion deferred briefly for executive session). - Executive Session: The council voted to go into closed session to discuss litigation with Mason LLC. After reconvening, no action was taken. - Consent Agenda Item Discussions: - Item K (Tyler software): Mr. Tisdale raised concerns about internet security and remote access; IT had approved the product. The amendment to increase the resolution amount to $8,100 was adopted. - Item J: Punch list for a contractor (Case?); Mr. Marshall noted issues with sidewalks, water meter boxes, and debris. Mr. Wall confirmed that further discussions were needed and that final payment is not imminent. - Item V: Waiver of equipment rental fees for Mardi Gras crews for 2026. - Item AA: Request to schedule a tour of the Sanger (vessel). - Item F (point cadet shoreline project change order): Change orders for plant growth timeline; the project is near the palace parking garage. - Routine Agenda: Approved unanimously after brief discussion. Key Outcomes - CDBG-Related Motion: Carried 6-0 with one abstention (specific motion not clearly identified but likely the CV fund allocation). - Conditional Use Approvals: All three (restaurant, two short-term rentals) approved unanimously. - Executive Session: Held; no action taken. - Consent Agenda: Approved as amended (Tyler software total $8,100). All members voted in favor. - Code Enforcement: Five properties closed due to violation or non-appearance. - Routine Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Announcement: Mr. Glavin reported that a change order for $822,000 (related to MEMA) had been approved and that funds would be received in August.

The Biloxi City Council held a budget work session on July 30, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year 2026 municipal budget, focusing primarily on the police and fire departments. The meeting began with approval of the agenda, followed by no mayor's report, no council reports, and no public comments. The council then opened discussion on the police department budget, followed by the fire department budget. Discussion Items Police Department Budget – Chief Miller reported current sworn officer staffing at approximately 127–130 (with seven new hires soon to start), compared to a budgeted target of 147 positions and a long-term goal of 170–200 officers. The department faces a vacancy rate of about 12–13%. Overtime is currently around $800,000 and expected to approach $1 million. The department operates about 160 patrol vehicles, with an annual replacement need of 25–30 units; each new upfitted vehicle costs roughly $80,000. A proposed increase of 15 positions (including animal control, booking officers, intel research specialists, and part-time officers) aims to shift sworn officers back to patrol and reduce overtime. The cost to outfit and train a new officer is estimated at $100,000. Council members discussed recruitment challenges, retirement plans (35-year plan viewed as unattractive), employee insurance increases, vehicle leasing vs. purchasing, community policing programs (Citizens Academy), and potential housing incentives for officers. Chief Miller also noted that the department is exploring childcare benefits as a retention tool. Fire Department Budget – Fire Chief reported a current staffing level of about 50–51 per shift (minimum 46), with 10 fire stations and a vacancy rate of approximately 3%. Overtime is estimated at $1 million annually. The cost to outfit and train a new firefighter is also about $100,000, with a 20-week recruit training period. The department is proposing a revamp of the training division, including adding training officers and a metal storage building for training props, to handle increased recruitment and advanced training needs. Fire truck costs have risen from $570,000 to $970,000 over the past few years. Four 2008 model engines are nearing replacement; EPA emissions regulations are causing engine failures (e.g., a $55,000 engine replacement). The department has applied for Safer grants twice but was denied; it will reapply. Training facility use is expanding, including partnerships with neighboring departments to reduce costs. Key Outcomes The council approved the meeting agenda unanimously. No final budget decisions were made; the session was a review and discussion. A motion was passed unanimously to hold the next budget meeting at 4:00 PM on the 5th (presumably August 5, 2025), prior to the regular council meeting. A motion to adjourn passed unanimously.