Public Meetings - Jackson, Mississippi

The Public Works Committee met on April 29, 2026, chaired by Councilman Foote. The committee discussed blight management, parks operations, and water/sewer infrastructure challenges. No formal votes were taken, but several directives were issued for developing a comprehensive blight plan and addressing service line issues. Blight Management and Equipment Plan - Public Works Director Lorenzo Anderson reported on the $1.4 million equipment acquisition, planning to create dedicated blight crews for concentrated area cleanups (curb/gutter, tree removal, demolition) over two-to-three-month cycles to maximize visual impact. - Councilman Foote emphasized operator accountability and connection to equipment, drawing on military experience. - Anderson proposed adding personnel to form specialized crews (drainage, storm drains, etc.) rather than pulling workers from other duties, aiming for faster response to 311 calls. - Council expressed support for the direction and requested Anderson develop a detailed strategy for the blight plan, integrating with code enforcement and planning. - A master blight plan is being drafted for submission to HUD, modeled after successful programs in Baltimore and Detroit. The committee directed Anderson to work with attorney Williamson on the public works section. - Councilman Foote noted that the city's equipment purchase demonstrates good faith for federal funding. Parks and Grass Cutting Operations - Anderson reported that 26 former parks employees have been transferred to public works for grass cutting, operating with only 14-15 mowers. Contractors began mowing major thoroughfares on April 27, covering the city in approximately 1.5 weeks per cycle. - Approximately 40 trees were downed by a recent Saturday storm; roads were cleared in time for events. - Councilman Hartley noted the city maintains too many parks and suggested creative solutions, citing Parm Bridges Park as a successful community-adopted model. - The committee discussed establishing a priority list for park mowing and encouraging faith-based groups to adopt parks. - Winter tasks include pruning, tree treatment, and equipment maintenance. Water and Sewer Infrastructure Issues - Councilman Foote proposed exploring a program to help residential property owners repair service lines from the city's responsibility point to homes, possibly through an external service (e.g., $349/month) or an RFP process. - Director Anderson reported ongoing legal work on a stopgap measure for private sewer lines affecting public streets: the city would repair and seek reimbursement from the property owner or Jackson Water. - Councilman Hartley described a severe sinkhole on Fallview Street where the homeowner cannot be located, creating a public liability. He urged expedited action. - The committee assigned a long-term study of flexible piping and other technologies to mitigate Yazoo Clay soil issues. Executive Session - The committee moved into executive session to discuss pending litigation regarding the city's water and sewer system, with no action taken afterward. Key Outcomes - Public Works Director Anderson to produce a detailed blight strategy within two months, with assistance from legal and planning departments. - Legal department to finalize a stopgap policy for private sewer line repairs affecting public streets. - Council to consider issuing an RFP for residential service line repair programs. - Long-term research on flexible piping and clay-adaptive infrastructure to be initiated. - Human and Cultural Services department to be invited to future meetings to discuss park personnel allocation.

The finance committee met on April 22, 2026, to address a projected $20 million budget shortfall. Council members reviewed revenue and expense reports, debated discrepancies in data presented, and discussed potential cuts to personnel and fixed costs. The meeting concluded with a commitment from the administration to provide recommendations on redundant positions and a detailed expense breakdown by Monday. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were recorded. Discussion Items - Revenue Report Discrepancies: The meeting began with a review of a revised revenue proposal (Exhibit A). Councilman Parkinson had created a spreadsheet with similar categories, but the numbers had changed. The administration explained that the revised report was generated from a "train" (sandbox) environment, not the live system, to show proposed changes. Councilman Hartley objected, noting that actual figures for FY2024 and FY2025 differed from those provided at the previous meeting. He stated, "I'm not gonna go one week and tell you one set of numbers and come back the next week and tell you something different" and moved to adjourn until correct numbers were obtained. Other council members echoed concerns about transparency and accuracy. The administration clarified that the sandbox report was only intended to show the FY2026 proposed column, but the inclusion of historical actuals caused confusion. The committee ultimately agreed to work with a $112 million revenue figure. - Expense Review and Shortfall Solutions: The committee reviewed Exhibit B (50% expense report) and Exhibit D (fixed expenses). Councilman Foote noted that under-spending in the first six months of FY2026 (e.g., police department personnel at 44% of budget, public works personnel at 36%) could be applied to the $20 million shortfall. The CAO recommended cutting redundant positions (yielding seven-figure permanent savings) and increasing employee health insurance contributions. The administration stated they cannot unilaterally cut positions; only the council has that authority. Council President Grizzell suggested cutting the HR department by one-third to 40%, citing that the city once had 2,250 employees with only seven HR staff, while now with fewer employees, HR has 15. The CAO agreed to bring a list of redundant positions by Monday. - Health Insurance and Other Fixed Costs: Councilman Foote asked about switching from a "Cadillac" health plan to a more modest one. The CAO noted the city spends slightly north of $15 million on health insurance and cannot renegotiate the current United Healthcare contract; only employee contributions can be raised. A consultant was proposed to identify savings, but Council President Grizzell objected, noting Councilwoman Clay's insurance expertise. The administration also discussed cell phone costs, fuel cards, and software contracts, with the CAO highlighting $2.3 million in annual software spending as disproportionate. - Employee Engagement and Cultural Change: Councilwoman Clay and Councilman Hartley proposed creating an anonymous email for employee suggestions on savings. Council President Grizzell advocated for a city-wide retreat to improve morale and customer service, suggesting using temporary staff for a half-day closure. Key Outcomes - The committee will continue to work with a $112 million revenue figure and will focus on cutting expenses to bridge the $20 million shortfall. - The administration will provide a list of recommended redundant positions and a detailed breakdown of all departmental expenses (including cell phones, fuel, supplies, etc.) by Monday, April 27, 2026. - The council agreed that a hiring freeze is already in effect and should continue, though exceptions may be made for essential public safety and public works positions. - No formal votes were taken; the meeting focused on discussion and directives for future action.

The Public Works Committee of the Jackson City Council met on April 22, 2026, to receive an equipment update for blight control and to conduct a thorough discussion of the recently enacted Metro Jackson Water Authority Act. City Attorney Drew Martin presented a detailed analysis of the legislation, covering governance, finances, rates, and transition processes. Council members raised concerns about the city's limited representation, lack of affordability protections, and the state's unilateral approach. Equipment Update for Blight Control Lorenzo Anderson, Public Works Director, reported on the status of equipment orders for blight control. The ski sphere (blight control attachment) is on quick bid (reverse auction) in April, with attachments to be ordered after vendor selection. Four 2500 RAM pickup trucks are ordered with an expected delivery date of June 1st (longer than anticipated). Dump trailers, utility trailers, and zero-turn mowers have been received. The mini excavator is on reverse auction with a May 1st date. The roll-off truck is on quick bid, and ATVs are ordered. The update emphasized the critical role of equipment in advancing blight cleanup. Discussion of the Metro Jackson Water Authority Act City Attorney Drew Martin provided an overview of the act, which creates a public benefit corporation to manage water and wastewater systems serving Jackson and its customers. Key points included: - Board Composition: The nine-member board includes three members appointed by the Jackson mayor (confirmed by council), two by the governor, one by the lieutenant governor, one by the governor in consultation with the Jackson mayor, and one each by the mayors of Ridgeland and Byron (confirmed by their boards). The Jackson mayor serves as a non-voting ex officio member. The city thus holds three out of nine votes (no majority). Council members noted that Ridgeland and Byron, representing only 11% of ratepayers, each receive a full voting member despite being customers with no ownership or debt obligations. - Appointment Timing: Initial board members must be appointed by May 1, 2026, with no penalty for delay. Councilman Hartley warned that if the city does not appoint its members quickly, a majority could be formed and a president selected without city input. - President Selection: Within 30 days of a majority being appointed, the board must select a president, who will serve as deputy to the Interim Third-Party Manager (ITPM) until court-ordered transition. The president's salary is not specified in the statute, raising concerns about attracting qualified candidates. - Lease Negotiation: The authority must negotiate a lease with the city to use its infrastructure. The city has leverage to include non-monetary terms such as affordability studies. The lease term continues until all authority bonds are paid off, and the system returns to the city after debt is satisfied. Council members expressed concern that the authority could perpetually carry debt, preventing return of the system. - Rate Setting: The board can set rates with a two-thirds vote for increases. A biennial rate study is required; if two consecutive studies show a deficit, a rate increase is mandated. No affordability study is required, and rates are not subject to Public Service Commission oversight. Councilman Foote and others emphasized the need to protect vulnerable residents from excessive rate increases. - Financial and Operational Provisions: The authority can issue new debt, refinance existing debt, and write off bad debt prior to November 22, 2022. Major procurements over $1 million require competitive bidding. The authority is subject to Open Meetings and Public Records Acts, increasing transparency. No in-person customer center is required, but a billing dispute process must be established. - Federal Court Role: The act does not override Judge Wingate's authority; the transition can only occur by court order. Council members noted that the system is not yet fully stabilized, particularly billing, and questioned whether transfer is premature. - Council Positions: Councilman Foote characterized the act as a "legislative taking" and stated the state should have consulted the people. Councilman Hartley called for due diligence, including engaging Judge Wingate. Councilman Parkinson stressed the need for independent analysis before decisions. The mayor noted that the lease does not yet exist and that the process is extremely preliminary. Key Outcomes - Councilman Parkinson announced that he has sent letters to the Mississippi Public Utility Staff and the Public Service Commissioner requesting independent analyses of billing system integrity, customer service, operational readiness, financial risk, and transition readiness. - The committee voted to enter executive session to discuss legal strategy regarding the litigation involving the city's water system and the federal court. - No formal votes were taken on the act itself; the discussion was informational.

The Finance Committee met on April 13, 2026, at 3:31 PM to review the general fund revenues for Fiscal Year 2026. The primary goal was to examine actual revenue collections for the first six months (October 2025 through March 31, 2026) compared to the adopted budget, understand shortfalls, and identify potential adjustments before the July 2026 deadline for a revised budget. The meeting focused solely on revenue; expenditures will be addressed at a subsequent meeting. Discussion Items - Terminology and Report Clarification: The chairperson clarified that the “original” and “revised budget” columns in the MINAES system report are nearly identical, except where amendments have already been made. The “year-to-date expended” column actually represents revenue collected. A footnote will be added to avoid confusion. The committee decided to work from the raw numbers rather than summaries. - General Property Taxes: As of March 31, 2026, $53,952,000 had been collected, representing about 79% of the annual budgeted amount – on track for the midpoint of the fiscal year. - Licenses and Permits: Only 56% of the annual budget had been collected, with notably weak categories including combustion/flammable liquid licenses (fire department), sign permits, adult entertainment licenses (18%), historic preservation (32.7%), and plumbing permits (40%). The chair noted that construction season may boost second-half revenue. - Fines and Forfeitures: A significant shortfall – only 23% collected ($377,287 against a budget of $1,639,470). Solutions discussed included migrating to an online payment system (DigitCourt, used by New Orleans) and holding an amnesty day. - Intergovernmental State – ABC Alcohol Permits: Only $109,465 of the $330,000 annual budget was received. The ongoing issues with the ABC warehouse were cited as a factor; the finance manager now projects only $220,000 for the year. - Parking Meters: Budgeted at $100,000, but nothing had been collected. Several council members expressed frustration with the current contract, which has generated complaints and no revenue. The CAO (Peter Taberson) noted the contract allows the vendor to recover its costs first; the city might be able to exit but could face litigation. He agreed to request a legal memo on options. - Thalia Mara Hall / Municipal Auditorium: Budgeted at $156,000 but zero collected to date. The council noted that operations were transferred to Visit Jackson after the budget was adopted, so the revenue line should be adjusted downward. The CAO promised to review the financial arrangement. - Interest Earned on Investments: Budgeted at $379,953, but only $6,915 collected (1.8%). The new contract with JP Morgan Chase is still being implemented; the CFO (Jillian Caldwell) said the first interest payments would likely be received after June 1. The CAO noted that FY2027 budget will see a significant increase in this line. - Indirect Cost (Line 0015515): Budgeted at $2.68 million, but only $58,333 collected. This line represents administrative reimbursements from enterprise funds (water/sewer, sanitation). Because the city no longer receives indirect costs from water/sewer, this line should be reduced to about $350,000 (sanitation only). - Union Station Tenant Rent (Line 0015467): Budgeted at $102,000; only $10,200 collected. JRA, which oversees the station, pays rent to the city. The finance manager will research the agreement to determine the correct expectation. - Sale of Fixed Assets (Line 0015427): $55,000 budgeted; $2,006 received. The first online auction (via GovDeals) closes April 14, which may bring in additional revenue. - Water/Sewer Franchise Fee (Line 0015417): Budgeted at $972,000 with zero collected; this line is being eliminated as the arrangement with Jackson Water has changed. - Historical Context: The CAO explained that the current deficit stems from decisions in 2023: salary increases for police and fire, conversion from comp time to overtime, and additional funding for planning and development. The impact was about $12.4 million (police $7.5M, fire $3.5M, planning $1.4M). Simultaneously, the loss of the water/sewer building further reduced revenues. The city’s fund balance was used to cover these shortfalls in FY2023-2025, nearly depleting it. The remaining buffer must be preserved for emergencies (e.g., tornado response). - Customer Service and Cash Handling: A councilmember noted that poor customer service in permitting and other departments reduces revenue. The CAO agreed and stated the administration is moving toward cashless systems to prevent theft and improve efficiency. The golf course (which went cashless) generated $296,000 last year and may increase revenue by $100,000 with proposed fee and operational changes. - Debt Collection: The city attorney is working to bring law firms to collect outstanding fines; state law caps fees at 25%. This is not expected to impact this fiscal year. Key Outcomes - The committee determined that actual revenue for the first half of FY2026 was $74,757,815, and second-half projections (based on FY2025 actuals) suggest about $37,427,151, for a total of approximately $112 million – well short of the $132 million adopted budget. A budget amendment is required because the shortfall exceeds 10%. - The chair directed the finance team to: (1) remove or mark as “draft” all line items identified as unrealistic (e.g., indirect cost, water/sewer franchise fee, Union Station overestimation); (2) update revenue figures to reflect actual collections through the latest date; (3) incorporate interest projections from the new bank; (4) add revenue from the upcoming auction; (5) prepare a list of line items with more than 30% deficit; and (6) provide a fixed expenditure list (including debt service) before the next meeting. - The next meeting will focus on expenses, with follow-up questions on revenue allowed first. - No formal votes were taken; all actions were directives for staff to prepare information for the budget amendment process.

The Finance Committee met on March 31, 2026, at approximately 4:03 PM to discuss energy-related costs, focusing on street lighting billing and operations. Representatives from Entergy Mississippi presented information on the number of street lights, billing structures, outage rates, and responsibilities. Council members expressed concerns about billing transparency, outage reporting, and the effectiveness of current service. Discussion Items - Entergy representatives (Delana Jones, Victoria Love, Andrew Mitchell) presented an overview of street light ownership, noting that the city has approximately 22,254 street lights. They reported that as of the day before the meeting, there were about 63 outages, representing less than one percent of reported outages that remained unrepaired. Council members expressed skepticism, with Councilman Parkinson stating he found it difficult to believe given his observations of dark areas. - The base monthly billing rate was explained: previously $344,626.44, now increasing to $360,183.50 due to billing system upgrades that had paused updates for municipal accounts. Entergy noted they did not back-bill for the paused period, saving the city approximately $447,244.26, and waived conversion fees for LED light swaps totaling about $47,545.38. However, future conversion fees will apply. - The billing structure includes riders approved by the Mississippi Public Service Commission, such as a fuel adjustment rider, which has caused recent bills to rise to around $404,000 due to a decrease in the credit amount. The base rate does not include these riders, which can fluctuate. - Entergy explained that lights are not metered; kilowatt-hour estimates are fixed per light type and used to calculate charges, so outages do not reduce the bill. This led to council concerns about paying for non-functioning lights. - Council members discussed the reporting system for outages, which includes a mobile app, phone number, and website. Councilwoman Brown noted her constituents have called without resolution, and others questioned the reliability of relying on citizen reports. Councilman Grisale suggested the city needs a better system, possibly involving police or technology like drones. - Ownership and responsibility for light fixtures and poles were clarified: Entergy owns and maintains fixtures, while the city owns many poles and wiring in older areas. Councilman Hartley requested a detailed breakdown of all charges and options, as well as a list of all city-owned lights. Councilman Parkinson requested a map and list to help identify and report outages. - Entergy agreed to provide an inventory list of lights, a map of Entergy-owned lights (previously shared with the city), and a breakdown of billing components. They also noted they can provide a proposal for Entergy to take over city-owned lights on Pascagoula Street where wiring issues are causing darkness. Key Outcomes - The committee requested that Entergy provide a detailed breakdown of all billing components, including base rates, riders, and the impact of fuel adjustments. - Entergy will provide a comprehensive list of all street lights (both Entergy and city-owned), a map of Entergy-owned lights, and a list of poles for which the city is charged. - Council members will review the list by ward, and the CAO (Mr. Taverson) will explore using city personnel to check city-owned lights. - No formal votes or changes were made, but the committee intends to use the information to reduce costs and improve lighting service. The meeting adjourned after the discussion.

The Finance Committee of the Jackson City Council met on March 27, 2026, to review revenue and expenditure data and begin the process of amending the fiscal year 2026 budget. The meeting, chaired by Councilwoman Clay, focused on using actual six-month data from FY26 to project the remainder of the year, identify inefficiencies, and improve transparency. Key participants included Finance Manager Brandon Jackson, CFO Jillian Caldwell, CAO Peter Taverson, and council members Foote, Parkinson, Grizzell, and Hartley. Discussion Items - Budget Amendment Process and Timeline: Chairwoman Clay advocated for amending the budget in one action before July, using actual revenue and expenditure data from the first six months of FY26 rather than historical FY25 numbers. CAO Taverson clarified that bond payments are heavier in the spring and summer, and that some departments had pre-spent their budgets expecting cuts. Councilman Parkinson requested a cash flow projection, which the administration agreed to provide. - Revenue Analysis: Councilman Foote reviewed the FY25 year-to-date revenue report, identifying major streams: general property tax ($66.57M), sales tax ($31.96M), franchise fees, and interest. He noted that the applied fund balance ($6.37M) and operating transfers ($4.55M) are not true revenue. CAO Taverson suggested exploring new revenue sources such as streaming services to replace declining cable franchise fees. - Expenditure Review and Oversight: The council examined the FY25 expense-by-division report. Planning and transportation overspent due to street light costs being misallocated. Right-of-way maintenance underspent significantly ($570K vs. $2M budgeted), which Councilman Parkinson noted as a misalignment with council intent. Councilman Grizzell raised concerns about vehicle misuse, cell phones still assigned to former employees, and redundant positions. CAO Taverson confirmed vehicle policies had been submitted to the mayor and that a cell phone audit was underway. CFO Caldwell noted that 33 redundant positions had been identified. - Code Enforcement Budget: The $4.3M budget for code services (division 444) was questioned. Councilman Foote requested a line-item breakdown. Councilman Grizzell noted that the budget includes salaries for 20 officers but insufficient demolition funds. Councilman Hartley urged cross-training and stricter enforcement. CFO Caldwell provided a breakdown sheet showing $2.1M in personal services and $710K for demolition projects. - Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA): Councilman Foote noted that $1.4M in the budget is for JRA bond payments and appropriations, and proposed auctioning JRA-owned properties to generate property tax revenue. Councilwoman Clay supported the idea with stipulations for local buyers and development timelines. CAO Taverson confirmed that JRA has been requested to appear at a separate committee meeting in April. - Transparency and Future Meetings: Councilman Grizzell stressed the need for monthly in-person meetings and better transparency on budget transfers. CAO Taverson defended the administration's transparency but committed to improved reporting. The council agreed to meet weekly until May 1, with the administration providing projections, line-item breakdowns, and a bond schedule. Key Outcomes - Directed Administration to: Provide budget projections based on actual FY26 six-month data, including revenue and expenditure forecasts for the second half of the year. - Requested Documents: Line-item breakdowns for code enforcement (division 444), a citywide bond schedule, fixed expense list, cash flow projection, and detailed reports on vehicle and cell phone usage. - Identified Savings: 33 redundant positions were flagged; vehicle policies and cell phone audits are in progress. The council emphasized reducing fuel, cell phone, and vehicle costs. - JRA Meeting: A separate committee meeting with JRA will be scheduled for April to discuss property management and revenue generation. - Council Commitment: The council will meet weekly (in person or via working quorum) through May 1 to finalize budget amendments. Monthly finance committee meetings will continue thereafter. - Audit Progress: The administration is working to complete two outstanding audits, and the auditor has been provided with necessary information.

The Jackson City Council Finance Committee met on March 25, 2026, to address a $23 million general fund budget deficit and a separate $7 million water bill issue. CFO Jillian Caldwell and CAO Peter Taywerson presented a modernization plan to balance the budget by reducing spending and increasing efficiency. The committee discussed the first step of cutting $10.7 million by returning to FY25 actuals, with an additional $13 million in cuts needed. No votes were taken, but the council requested detailed data and agreed to continue deliberations in future meetings. Discussion Items - Budget Deficit Overview: CAO Taywerson described the city's "math problem"—a $23 million shortfall in the general fund (budgeted at $135 million, revenue at $112 million) and $7 million in unpaid water bills. He noted that no Mississippi municipality has attempted a deficit reduction of this size without federal aid. - Modernization Plan Presentation: CFO Caldwell outlined a 12–18 month plan to modernize the city workforce, increase revenues, and reduce costs. Phase 1 includes triage and transparency, such as reducing travel, restoring the internal audit division, and paying prior invoices. Phase 2 focuses on restructuring and eliminating redundant positions. Phase 3 addresses asset management and real estate. - First Round of Cuts ($10.7 million): The administration has already identified $10.7 million in savings by reducing department budgets to FY25 actuals. This includes $2.96 million from public works, $2.69 million from general government, $1.25 million from policing, and $1.29 million from administration, plus other departments. These cuts do not involve layoffs but rely on vacancies and reduced spending. - Additional Savings Proposals: Potential further savings include $2.7 million from insurance fund adjustments, $2.96 million from public works (general fund reduction), and other line items totaling up to $13 million. Council members requested detailed breakdowns of these figures. - Council Concerns and Requests: Council members questioned the accuracy of the numbers, noting a discrepancy between $10.4 million and $10.7 million (explained by a $300,000 adjustment for unbudgeted repairs). They asked for more detailed reports, including revenue composition, line-item cuts, and the impact on services. Councilman Foote raised concerns about the Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA), which owns 90 vacant properties and receives $600,000 annually from the city, suggesting the city should take back and sell those properties. CAO Taywerson confirmed JRA will appear at the April council meeting. - Other Revenue/Expense Ideas: Discussion included an amnesty week for court fines to generate revenue, auctioning surplus assets, reviewing contracts, and increasing employee health insurance contributions to save $2.75 million. Councilman Hartley emphasized the need to grow revenue, not just cut spending. - Current Financial Status: CFO Caldwell reported that revenues are slightly ahead of last year (sales tax up 600,000 year-to-date), and expenses are under budget, but the full-year deficit remains. Key Outcomes - No Vote Taken: The committee did not vote on any budget amendments. The presentation was informational, and the council will continue discussions in a series of future meetings. - Data Requests: The administration will provide detailed breakdowns of the $10.7 million in cuts, the composition of general fund revenue, specific reduction proposals for the remaining $13 million, and a list of general fund appropriations to other funds. Council members also requested better monthly financial reports with running balances. - Future Meetings: The council plans to schedule additional meetings to work through the full $23 million reduction, ideally completing the process by the end of April. The administration will provide data in advance of these meetings. - JRA Oversight: CAO Taywerson confirmed that JRA representatives will appear at the April 7th work session and April 14th council meeting to address concerns about vacant properties and spending. - Next Steps: The council will collaborate with the administration to finalize the budget adjustments, aiming to balance the FY26 budget and set a foundation for FY27.

The Public Works Committee met on March 24, 2026, at approximately 2:36 PM to discuss equipment procurement, public works operations, litter control, and the status of the Jackson Metro Water Authority legislation. Key participants included Councilman Hartley (Chair), Councilwoman Brown Thomas, Councilman Parkinson, Councilman Foot, Councilman Grizzell, Public Works Director Anderson, and City Attorney Drew Martin. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during this meeting. Discussion Items - Equipment Procurement and Deployment: Director Anderson reported that 19 pieces of equipment have been ordered, including three skid steers, three dump trucks, three zero-turn mowers, three ATVs with sprayers, three utility trailers, three dump trailers, seven pickup trucks, and various attachments. Most equipment is expected within a month, with skid steers operational by May (late April to early May). Zero-turn mowers may already be in, but confirmation is pending. A grass-cutting bid will be opened after the meeting, with 10 contractors attending the pre-bid meeting. - Minority and Small Business Participation: Councilwoman Brown Thomas raised concerns about minority participation in contracts. Director Anderson stated there is no minimum participation requirement, but the city encourages participation by breaking contracts into smaller, ward-based segments to lower bond requirements. City Attorney Drew Martin noted that recent executive orders and Department of Justice guidance make explicit minority participation requirements difficult, but legal avenues exist to ensure fair access. He offered to provide an update at the next meeting. - Litter Control and Inmate Labor: Discussion focused on using inmate labor from the Hinds County Sheriff's Office and state corrections for litter pickup. Councilwoman Brown Thomas mentioned a constituent whose email from Sheriff Jones indicated the program had ended. City Attorney Martin confirmed that an MOU exists with the county, transportation commission, and department of corrections, but legal issues and limited qualifying inmates have slowed progress. Multiple agencies are competing for eligible inmates. Councilman Foot suggested using municipal detainees to work off fines for litter pickup, a program the city previously attempted but which fell apart. Municipal judges are supportive. The committee directed solid waste staff to conduct a deep dive into all connecting pieces and report back. - Street Sweepers and Fleet Maintenance: Chair Hartley asked about street sweeper training, which was reported as not going well, with an update to come in the next meeting. Councilman Grizzell raised concerns about the motor pool at Michael Avalon, noting only one fleet manager and three mechanics (one on leave) serve the entire city, including police vehicles. Director Anderson confirmed that the police department does not have its own fleet manager. Councilman Grizzell also emphasized the need for security measures (fencing, trackers, monthly inventory) to protect over $1 million in new equipment from theft. - Storm Drain Operations: The city has one operational jet truck (15+ years old) that went down on Friday. No dedicated storm drain crews exist; the same crews handle bridges, drainage, curb and gutter, and potholes. Councilman Foot requested a handout on crew structure and deployment plans. The city does not own a drainage camera (cost $15,000) and contracts that work out, though Jackson Water previously shared their camera. - Environmental Services Center: Director Anderson reported that Jackson Water agreed to vacate part of the Michael Avalon building, allowing solid waste to move in. A separate break room across the street will store hazardous waste. The committee requested the city publicize the new location. - Asphalt Pricing: Chair Hartley noted rising oil prices and asked about pre-ordering asphalt. Director Anderson stated the city has a supply bid locking in prices and also uses the county's term bid for some projects. - Jackson Metro Water Authority (JMWA) Legislation: City Attorney Martin updated that the House bill (HB) was replaced by a Senate strike-all version that would create a nine-member board with only three seats appointed by the city. The bill did not pass the House and went to conference; the final day of session (sine die) was March 24, and Martin believed it highly unlikely any bill would pass. The city would retain only three of nine seats under any scenario. Councilman Grizzell stressed that the council and administration must coordinate in advance to present a unified position next year, and Councilman Foot warned that the water issue should not consume all legislative efforts at the expense of other priorities. - Post-Legislation Transition Planning: Martin noted that the city can explore creating its own utility board via a city ordinance. He recommended starting internal discussions in September or October to prepare for the 2027 legislative session, including meetings with the mayor's office, lobbyists, and city delegation. Director Anderson affirmed the city could manage the utility by focusing on contract management, but emphasized the need for full financial and operational transparency from Jackson Water. Martin committed to preparing a resolution for the committee to consider. Key Outcomes - Equipment: All ordered equipment is expected within a month, with skid steers operational by May. The committee directed staff to provide a monthly inventory and security plan (trackers, fencing) for the motor pool. - Minority Participation: Attorney Martin will present an update on legal methods to promote minority and small business participation at the next meeting. - Litter Control: Solid waste staff will conduct a deep dive into reinstating inmate/detainee litter pickup programs, coordinating with the sheriff, court services, and municipal judges. Staff will report back on all connecting pieces. - Fleet Maintenance: Staff will provide an update on street sweeper training and the status of the motor pool fleet manager and mechanics. - Storm Drains: Director Anderson will present a handout on crew structure and deployment plans at the next meeting, including dedicated storm drain crews and camera equipment. - JMWA Legislation: The committee will begin internal transition planning, with Attorney Martin preparing a draft city ordinance for a potential utility board and a resolution for council consideration. A legislative committee meeting is anticipated in September/October 2026.

The Public Works Committee met on March 4, 2026, to discuss equipment purchases, illegal dumping enforcement, crew resources for potholes and drainage, traffic signal issues, and the One Percent Sales Tax program. Director Lorenzo Anderson and other staff provided updates and responded to council members' questions. Public Comments & Testimony - No formal public comments were made. Chair recognized neighborhood leader Ms. McGrafty McDaniels attending the meeting. Discussion Items - Equipment Update: Deputy Director James Caldwell reported that skid steers and trucks have been ordered. Skid steer delivery is approximately two weeks after purchase orders are issued; truck delivery is about four weeks due to custom builds. Excavators and a roll-off truck will be bid out. No equipment has arrived yet. The city is also inheriting a sidearm from Silent Waste currently being repaired. - Illegal Dumping Unit: Councilman Foote introduced concerns about the disbanding of the illegal dumping unit by JPD. He emphasized the unit's effectiveness and plans to bring a resolution for reinstatement. Committee members expressed strong support, noting that illegal dumping remains a problem. Discussion included fines and the existing vehicle seizure ordinance. - Breakdown of Crews: Director Anderson outlined current staffing: a maximum of three pothole crews (but often only one due to equipment breakdowns), one tree crew, and one construction crew handling drainage and storm drains. A dedicated drainage crew is recommended. CAO Taywerson confirmed that an ordinance is being drafted to hold utilities (including Jackson Water) accountable for timely restoration of utility cuts. Councilman Foote highlighted a dangerous pothole on Old Canton Road caused by a water valve leak. - Traffic Lights: Councilman Foote raised frequent issues with traffic signals malfunctioning (blinking red lights). Director Anderson cited aging infrastructure, vandalism, and accidents. The city has six traffic staff including a supervisor, but no dedicated traffic engineer. CAO Taywerson agreed that hiring a full-time traffic engineer is a necessity and cheaper than relying on consultants. Discussion included potential studies to identify unnecessary traffic signals. - One Percent Sales Tax: Director Anderson presented a handout of projects sorted by phase (1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and bond projects). Councilwoman expressed constituents' disappointment about lack of representation for South Jackson streets. CAO Taywerson stated that a subcommittee will work with the 1% commission to reconcile the list and prioritize new streets, with additions expected soon. Discussion of commission membership: one term expired, mayor will nominate a replacement. Key Outcomes - City will pursue a utility cut ordinance to hold utilities accountable for timely repairs. - Administration to work with 1% commission to include South Jackson streets in the project list. - Council will consider a resolution to reinstate the JPD illegal dumping unit; coordination with new police chief. - Hiring a traffic engineer deemed a priority; CAO will initiate recruitment. - Future meetings will include follow-up on 1% sales tax structure and a discussion on Jackson Metro Water Authority. - No formal votes were taken; requests for cost estimates for additional pothole crews were noted.