Public Meetings - Oxford, Mississippi

The Oxford Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the City Hall Courtroom, presided over by Mayor Robyn Tannehill. All aldermen were present except Ward V Alderman Preston Taylor. The board approved a consent agenda, numerous contracts, appointments, and heard a lengthy discussion on a sidewalk closure request. The meeting concluded with an executive session. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes of the Regular Board meeting on September 1, 2026, and the Recess meeting on September 8, 2026. - Accounts Payable: Approved claims totaling $2,350,676.30 across all city departments. - Donations: Accepted a bench donation from the Oxford Pickleball Group for Bobby Maddox, a donation from The Woman's Forum for Stronger Together, and donations for the Animal Resource Center. - Pedicab/Taxi Permits: Approved Elena Hart and Matthew King as drivers for Local Bike Taxi, LLC. - Water/Sewer Adjustments: Approved adjustments per the Leak Adjustment Policy. - Travel Requests: Approved 12 travel requests for police, fire, Stronger Together, board members, and animal center staff, with costs ranging from $229 to $11,532. - Human Resources: Approved promotion of Adarius Brown to Grill Cook at $15.00/hour; unpaid internships for Jamarion Hicks and Yasmin Arellano; step increase for Brian "Keith" Ray to $66,306.25/year; hire of Camryn Dennis as Administrative Assistant ($41,600/year); hire of Isaac Arney as part-time laborer ($15.00/hour); resignation of Addyson Crowder. - Grants: Accepted grants 26LE286 ($98,085) and 26LE286A ($45,000) from MS Office of Homeland Security for the Regional Fusion Center; approved MOSTF grant resolution; authorized application for MS Forestry Grant. - The consent agenda was adopted with additions of items 3.c.v and 3.c.vi. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the public hearing for the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 22 (Building Code). Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Announced Visit Oxford won the Best Marketing Program award from Southeast Tourism Society; discussed game day weekend preparations (Wednesday to Sunday event with extra street sweepers and security); announced a trip to Washington, D.C. with aldermen and staff to request infrastructure funding (noting over $250 million secured from state/federal partners in past ten years). - Snyder Construction Group Sidewalk Closure Request (Item 8.l): Chris from Snyder Construction presented a request to close a sidewalk along South Lamar Boulevard and the Harrison Avenue alley for approximately eight months to build a shoring wall and foundation for a development at 208 South Lamar. Board members raised concerns about the eight-month duration, lack of emergency access (fire trucks need 14-foot width, but only 10 feet would be available), impact on football season traffic, and damage to newly reconstructed road and utilities. The board suggested a phased approach, starting with shoring wall approval, reduced closure time, and better pedestrian detour plans. No motion was made; the contractor was asked to return with a revised plan. - General Liability Insurance for Oxford University Transit: Eric Jeffries presented a quote. Note: The agenda/minutes state the approved quote was $815,804.70 with a $1,000 deductible, but the transcript records a quote of $733,500. The board approved the quote as recorded in the minutes. Key Outcomes - Appointments: James Harper and Mary Polk appointed to the Affordable Housing Commission; Allison Anderson appointed to the Tourism Council. (All unanimous) - Oxford University Transit Insurance: Accepted General Liability Insurance for 10/1/2026–9/30/2027; amount per minutes: $815,804.70. - Local State of Emergency: Extended for an additional 30 days (unanimous). Permits & Contracts - Parade/Assembly Permits: Approved for NAMI Oxford awareness walk on October 24, 2026 (10:00 AM–12:00 PM) and for WMC Action News 5/Gray Media live broadcast on September 19, 2026 (2:00–6:00 PM). (Unanimous) - Ordinance: Approved second reading of ordinance amending Chapter 22 (Building Code) to include demolition. (Unanimous) - Tournament Agreements: Approved General Services Agreement with Gameday Management Services, LLC for cleanup ($16.50/hour); Tournament Operating Agreement with Mark LLC for youth soccer ($65/team); Tournament Operating Agreement with Southern Sports Specialists, LLC for fast-pitch softball ($195 for main field Friday, $325/field Saturday/Sunday, $75/field overflow). (All unanimous) - Municipal Annex AV Package: Accepted low bid of $80,390.42 from Davaine. (Unanimous) Engineering & Development Items - Performance Bond: Released bond No. 4442951 for Colonnade Crossing Phase 1 street lighting. (Unanimous) - Annual Material Bids: Accepted low bids for FY 2026–2027; one bid from Univar Kent was rejected due to irregular bid form and past delivery issues. (Unanimous) - Engineering Amendment: Approved $38,000 amendment to Elliott and Britt Engineering for electrical/mechanical design of South 14th Street Trash Compactor Enclosure. (Unanimous) - mTrade Wells: Approved contract with Donald Smith Company for Wells No. 3 and 4 at $1,135,500. (Unanimous) - Advertisements for Bids: Authorized advertising for Howell Loop Lift Station Replacement and mTrade Water Treatment Plant projects. (Unanimous) - MDOT Agreement: Approved replacement Memorandum of Agreement for Thacker Road Sidewalks Phase 2. (Unanimous) - Concrete Pours: Approved Live Oak Contracting early morning pours on specified dates in September, with a condition to stop if complaints arise. (Unanimous) - Sunday Work: Approved Century Construction interior-only Sunday work at Magnolia Development (October–December 2026); Alderman Bailey abstained. (7–0–1) - Taylor Condominium Development: - Approved reconfiguration of city parking lot (7 spaces affected, but replaced). (Unanimous) - Approved revocable license for stormwater detention line across city property, pending site plan approval. (Unanimous) Executive Session (Personnel & Property Acquisition) - Motion to enter executive session passed (unanimous). The board discussed personnel matters for Municipal Court and Police Department and property acquisition near water tower, behind City Hall, and Varner Loop. - Decisions: Offered Kim Hampton the position of Municipal Court prosecutor at $55,000/year; upon acceptance, promoted Robert Lomenick to prosecutor at $55,000/year. (All unanimous) - Returned to regular session and adjourned.

The City of Oxford Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting on September 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Courtroom. Mayor Robyn Tannehill presided, with Aldermen Erin Smith (Ward I), Mark Huelse (II), Brian Hyneman (III), Kesha Howell-Atkinson (IV), Preston Taylor (V), Jason Bailey (VI, via Teams), and Mary Martha Crowe (At-Large) present. The agenda was amended to remove the emergency purchases item (2.c), add two part-time officer hires (3.d.x), approve the minutes of the August 28 special meeting (2.f), and add a water conservation request (4.e). The meeting included a public budget hearing, adoption of several major plans, and an executive session for personnel matters. Consent Calendar The consent agenda was approved unanimously, comprising: - Authorization to declare surplus and dispose of a thermal label maker and scanner from Municipal Court, a computer and monitors from Development Services–Building, and a JNC 660 from the Police Department. - Approval of new pedicab/taxi owners: Sandra Hughes / Velvet Carts, LLC and James Butler / OxCart Tours, LLC. - Water/sewer bill adjustments per the Leak Adjustment Policy. - Travel requests: one officer to Mental Health First Aid (Southaven, no cost); nine officers to Advanced Patrol Techniques (Oxford, no cost); one officer to SFST Training (Brandon, estimated cost $475); four planning staff to Deep South Planning Conference (Auburn, $4,500); two financial staff to Winter Municipal Clerk Conference (Flowood, $2,325); two transit employees to Washington, D.C. ($2,737.37). - Human Resources actions: hired Walker Yates (Concessionaire, $10/hr); accepted resignation of Bella “Jay” Chain (Municipal Court); hired Jeremiah Wells (Inventory Control Assistant, $54,995.20/yr); promoted Wyatt Smith to Working Line Foreman ($82,908.80/yr); accepted resignation of Brandon Byrd (Patrol Officer); promoted Cole Cromwell to K9 Officer ($101.78 monthly stipend); hired Isaac Ditto (Patrol Officer, $54,107.60/yr); approved Hailey Hobson (unpaid intern) and Dacey Leonard (volunteer) for Police Department; hired Johnny Sneed (certified part-time officer, $24.77/hr) and Katherine Spears (uncertified part-time Communications Officer, $12.00/hr). Public Comments & Testimony - During the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget hearing, a citizen questioned how TIF revenues and fund balances are used, prompting discussion on TIF escrow accounts and bond repayment. - Johnny Steele addressed the Board on ADA compliance, urging consideration of accessibility challenges for disabled and elderly residents regarding parking meters/kiosks and technology, and requested ongoing staff training on disability needs. Budget Hearing and Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget City Clerk Leslie McCormick presented the July 2026 budget report, noting the city had collected 97% of projected tax revenue and 87% of the year’s total revenue, with expenditures below budget expectations. She then presented the proposed 2026-2027 budget: projected general fund revenues of $57.1 million, expenses of $63.5 million. The largest investments are Police ($15.5 million, 24.6%) and Fire ($9.3 million, 14.8%). The proposed millage rate remains unchanged at 32.65 mills (23.2 mills general fund, 2 mills parks, 7.45 mills debt service). A public hearing was held; one citizen commented on TIFs. No vote was taken; the Board will vote on the budget at a special meeting on September 8, 2026, at 1:30 PM. Affordable Housing Commission Update and Program Approval Josh Cissell, Chair of the Affordable Housing Commission, and Dr. Janice Antonell presented the semi-annual update and the Affordable Rental Housing Certification Program. The program allows property owners who lease to households earning no more than 80% of area median income ($98,100 for Oxford-Lafayette County in 2026) and charge rent at or below 30% of household income to apply for property tax assessment using the net operating income method, potentially reducing taxes. The Oxford Housing Authority will verify incomes. The Lafayette County Board of Supervisors passed a supporting resolution in June. The Board unanimously approved the resolution establishing the program. Extension of Local State of Emergency The Board unanimously approved extending the local state of emergency to continue qualifying for FEMA and MEMA reimbursements related to Winter Storm Fern (January 23–26, 2026). Water Conservation Request Rob Neely, Superintendent of Oxford Utilities, reported record production: 9 million gallons in a single day and 234.9 million gallons in August (12% more than August 2025), due to extreme heat and 30 days without rain. All wells are running near capacity. To maintain system reliability and fire protection, he asked the Board to issue a request for customers to voluntarily reduce outdoor irrigation by 50% effective immediately. The Board supported the request; no formal vote was needed. Neely noted that multiple infrastructure projects are underway to increase capacity in the next 12 months. Police Department Items - Approved a resolution requesting the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission to extend alcohol sales hours on Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM (game day). - Approved a Parade/Assembly permit for the “Truck or Treat” event on October 22, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Conference Center. - Approved allowing the Chief of Police to sign an MOU with the Oxford School District for emergency-only access to the school’s camera system, with monthly audit logs. - Approved a contract with Shielded Security to provide pedestrian traffic management at four intersections around the Square on home football game weekends (Fridays and Saturdays, eight hours per day). Building Department Reinspection Fees Building Official Johnathan Mizell reported that inspections increased from 13,651 in FY2024-2025 to 20,817 in FY2025-2026 (as of September 1). To reduce repeat trips, the Board approved a new fee structure: initial reinspection free; second reinspection $100; third $250; fourth $500; fifth or more $1,000. The first reading of an ordinance to add demolition permits to Chapter 22 was also introduced. Parks and Trails Master Plan Adoption Ben Requet presented the City of Oxford Parks and Trails Master Plan, developed with Ecological Design Group and extensive community input. The plan positions parks and trails as essential community infrastructure supporting connectivity, recreation, environmental stewardship, mobility, and economic vitality. The Board unanimously adopted the plan. Game Day Parking Ordinance Amendments This item was a second reading and public hearing for an ordinance amending Article XVII of the Oxford Code of Ordinances regarding game day parking rates, pay-by-plate pay stations, and rental car violations. Following extensive board discussion and public comment: - Approved (unanimous): Remove the three-hour time limit for on-street parking. - Approved (unanimous): Update language from individual meters to pay-by-plate pay stations, with license plate numbers as identifiers for payment and enforcement. - Approved (unanimous): Add a provision that if the operator of a rental vehicle charged with a violation is unknown, the owner of record shall be presumed to be the operator and may be charged, pursuant to Mississippi Code. - Failed (no second): A motion to set the hourly rate at $2.50 for the first four hours and $20 per hour thereafter. No motion was made to increase the game day fine from $50 to $100. Therefore, hourly rates and fines for game day parking remain unchanged. The amendments will take effect after a 30-day curing period. Other Special Projects Actions - Authorized advertising for bids for the mTrade Indoor Practice Facility Technology package. - Accepted the low bid of $69,500 from Industrial Frigo USA Inc. for a temporary ice skating rink for Holly Jolly Holiday. - Approved a revocable, non-exclusive tournament operating agreement (three-year term, 90-day termination notice) between the City of Oxford and Richey Sports, LLC. Engineering Contract Award Approved a contract award to Distinctive AFWS Designs, Inc. for a flood threat resolution system (Base Bid, Alternate No. 1, and Alternate No. 2) and authorized the Mayor to execute all related documents subject to legal review. Executive Session and Personnel Actions The Board unanimously voted to enter executive session for personnel matters. Actions taken during executive session (recorded in the minutes): - Suspended Adam Gafford from the Oxford Fire Department for a 24-hour shift for violating city policy. - Granted Robert Lomenick from Municipal Court a $4,000 raise for the month of September 2026. - Suspended Brad Freeman from mTrade Park for five days and revoked his merit increase for violating city policy. Key Outcomes All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Key decisions include: - Approved minutes of August 18 and August 28, 2026 meetings. - Approved accounts for all city departments totaling $1,684,779.57. - Approved the consent agenda in its entirety. - Approved Affordable Rental Housing Certification Program resolution. - Approved Oxford University Transit 2026-2027 budget (total $5,703,120; city share $353,390.34, plus $9,050 for facility renovation). - Extended local state of emergency. - Approved Police Department items: ABC extended hours request, Truck or Treat permit, MOU with Oxford School District, contract with Shielded Security. - Approved building reinspection fee schedule. - Adopted Parks and Trails Master Plan. - Approved three parking ordinance amendments (time limit removal, pay-by-plate language, rental car provision). - Authorized bid advertisement for mTrade technology package. - Awarded ice rink contract ($69,500). - Approved tournament operating agreement with Richey Sports, LLC. - Awarded flood mitigation contract to Distinctive AFWS Designs, Inc. - Approved entry into executive session and subsequent personnel actions. - Recessed meeting until Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:30 PM at City Hall Courtroom.

The Oxford Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting at 5:00 PM on August 18, 2026, in the City Hall Courtroom. Mayor Robyn Tannehill and all seven aldermen were present. The meeting addressed budget amendments, emergency purchases from Winter Storm Fern, personnel actions, parade permits, development projects, contract extensions, and an executive session. All votes were unanimous unless noted with recusals. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the Recess Board of Aldermen Meeting on August 3, 2026, and the Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting on August 4, 2026. - Approved accounts for all city departments totaling $3,190,902.24 (General Fund claims 142086-142245, Water & Sewer claims 41245-41288, Trust & Agency claims 55375-55451, Metro Narcotics claims 9347-9352, OPC Activity Fund claims 5108-5173, and ACH payments). - Approved emergency purchases made as a result of Winter Storm Fern (January 23–26, 2026). - Approved a list of budget amendments and reallocations, including fund corrections, bond payment allocations, disaster recovery funding for Winter Storm Fern, Oxford University Transit budget alignment, and Building and Grounds restructuring. - Approved the consent agenda en bloc, which included: - Fixed Asset Management: Acceptance of a 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe from Lafayette County Detention Center for Oxford University Transit. - Miscellaneous: Water/sewer bill adjustments per the Leak Adjustment Policy. - Travel Requests: Six travel requests for department employees (Financial Administration to Fall Municipal Clerk Conference, Environmental Services to three conferences, Police Department to Mental Health First Aid and DRE Conference) at total estimated costs of $3,486.00 plus one at no cost. - Human Resources: 16 actions including hiring of interns, part-time and full-time employees, promotions, resignations, a 6% step increase for Angela Chase (Class III Wastewater Certification), and approval for Rome Hill to operate a City vehicle. - Grants: Permission to apply for the Mississippi Main Street Revitalization Grant Program and approval of a resolution for the MOSTF grant application. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Announced that Travel + Leisure named Oxford the best small college town in the U.S. Discussed the new parking pay stations, noting that text-to-pay is now available, and that users need to know their zone and license plate number. - Retirement Resolution for Chief Inspector William Stewart: Chief Joey Gardner read a resolution honoring 25 years of service. The board unanimously adopted the resolution. - Paint the Town Gold Event: Pam Swain (Visit Oxford) presented a community campaign to create a unified Oxford-University celebration for the first Ole Miss football game of the Golding Era, culminating in a send-off parade on September 5, 2026. The campaign includes yard signs, banners, and business decorations. Staff requested no confetti or balloon arches to avoid cleanup issues. Approved with Alderman Smith recused. - Appointment to Oxford-Lafayette Economic Development Foundation (O-Link): Bill Turner appointed unanimously. - RATP Dev 1-Year Extension for Oxford University Transit: The management contract extension (second of two one-year options) was approved unanimously. - Oxford Park Commission Quarter 3 Report: Seth Gaines reported highlights: 80 kids in the first summer co-ed kickball league, 47 girls in the first girls flag football program, 128 rentals this quarter, 5,426 LLO class registrations, new gymnastics group growth (132, 187, 182 monthly participants), wrestling summer registration of 103 (largest ever), 710 kids in day camp over five weeks, and reopening of Avent Park playground. Shade structures are on order. - Second Reading and Public Hearing – Ordinance Amending Chapter 87 (Neighborhood Code Enforcement): Changed language requiring residents to use garbage cans compatible with automated side-load trucks. No public comments. Unanimously adopted as Ordinance 2026-6. - Second Reading and Public Hearing – Ordinance Amending Chapter 94 (Solid Waste): Increased fees for residential and commercial service and roll-offs. Last residential increase was in 2022 ($1). Cited inflation, fuel costs, equipment costs (garbage trucks now $280,000 vs. $200,000 in 2018), and Winter Storm Fern damage. No public comments. Unanimously adopted as Ordinance 2026-7. - ZeroEyes, Inc. Agreement: Chief McCutchen requested approval to sign a grant-funded AI weapon detection system that integrates with existing cameras, with human review before dispatch. One-year term at no cost to the city. Approved unanimously. - Parade/Assembly Permits: Eight permits approved unanimously: - Community Church of Oxford – Christmas Eve Celebration, Dec 24, 3:30-7:00 PM. - Junior League of Oxford – Find the Good Day, Sept 12, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. - Ole Miss Student Union – Homecoming Parade, Oct 16, 5:00-6:00 PM. - Visit Oxford – Scoop on Tourism, Aug 21, 2:00-5:00 PM. - Visit Oxford – Square Christmas Lighting, Nov 12, 2:00-7:00 PM. - Nicholas Air – 5K, Oct 3, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM. - Oxford Marketing – Paint the Town Gold Send Off parade, Sept 5, 12:00-12:30 PM (Alderman Smith recused). - Preliminary Plat for Brewer's Walk (Case 3386): Eight residential lots plus a ninth lot with existing house on 6 acres at 3110 Jeff Davis Extended. Stormwater management to be handled site-by-site. Planning commission recommended approval with four conditions. Approved unanimously. - Change Order No. 1 for IPF Renovation Project: $5,489 for steel columns/bracing and relocation of cross bracing; costs recouped from allowances. Approved with Alderman Bailey recused. - Change Order No. 7 (Final) for City Hall Renovation Project: $6,307 net increase, bringing total to $1,811,075. Substantial completion in March 2026. Approved unanimously. - First Reading of Ordinance Amending Article XVII (Parking) : Proposed changes for gameday parking: first 3 hours $5/hour, thereafter $15/hour; off-street lots remain $0.75/hour; free parking at water tower garage; violation fine increased to $101; tighter rental car violation enforcement. Developed with input from downtown business owners. No vote taken; second reading and public hearing required. - Change Order No. 2 for mTrade Wells No. 1 and No. 2: $9,000 increase to deepen wells; MCWI reimbursed. Approved unanimously. - Early Morning Concrete Pours for The Finn Development: Request by Live Oak Contracting to start pours at 3 AM on specific dates to beat heat. Approved with condition that approval can be revoked immediately if complaints are received. - Change Order No. 1 and Final for Old Taylor Road Water Distribution Project: $78,410 increase due to unsuitable soils; paid by developer The Finn. Approved unanimously. - Sidewalk Closure on Gertrude Ford Boulevard: University of Mississippi requested closure for 24 months for School of Accountancy construction. Pedestrian detour plan using east bike lane with jersey barriers approved, with condition that the university work with city staff to design and build a permanent sidewalk to minimize disruption. - Sidewalk Closure for Regions Bank Building Cleaning: F&F Construction to close two parking spaces as pedestrian detour for exterior cleaning on either Sept 3-5 or Sept 24-26. Approved unanimously. - Sidewalk Closure along Hopkins Drive (W.G. Yates): Request to close for approximately one year for Citizen Bank construction. Tabled after discussion that the duration was uncertain; board requested a realistic timeframe. - Service Contract with Urban SDK: Cloud-based platform for traffic data collection (speed, volume, accidents, turning movements). Not yet budgeted; request to lock in price and free onboarding for when budget is approved after Oct 1. Approved unanimously. - Change Order No. 1 for Oxford Regional Water Supply – Haley Well No. 2: $90,000 increase to upgrade well screen from 16” to 24” to meet flow rates; 75/25 federal/local match (COR 592 program). Approved unanimously. - Flood Threat Recognition System: Proposal from Distinctive AFWS Designs, Inc. for radar/cell-based flood warning system in streams (Burney Branch, Bailey Branch); 90/10 FEMA hazard mitigation grant. Budgeted and installed. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All items on the consent agenda and regular agenda were approved unanimously except where noted. - Recusals: Alderman Smith recused on Paint the Town Gold event approval and the related parade permit. Alderman Bailey recused on Change Order No. 1 for the IPF Renovation Project. - Executive Session (7 motions passed): - Entered executive session for property acquisition, potential litigation (Oxford Cemetery), and personnel. - Directed John Crawley to offer other spaces or refunds to people who purchased duplicate cemetery spots. - Acquired appraisals for a potential connector road to F.D. Buddy East Blvd. - Acquired appraisals for the parking lot near the City of Oxford blue water tower. - Acquired appraisals for townhomes near the City Hall parking lot. - Terminated Kelvin Wesson from Building and Grounds - Landscape Services Department for violating city policy. - Returned to regular session. - The meeting adjourned at an undisclosed time following executive session.

The City of Oxford Board of Aldermen met at 5:00 PM on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in the City Hall Courtroom. Mayor Robyn Tannehill was absent, and Mayor Pro Tem Jason Bailey presided; all seven aldermen were present. The board approved the amended agenda, a consent calendar, a public hearing and bond resolution for student housing, several contracts and engineering measures, and entered executive session before adjourning. Consent Calendar - Agenda adopted with additions (3.a.ii, 3.d.xi, 3.d.xii, 6.e, 6.f, 6.g) and removals (2.c, 3.d.x, 4.d). - Approved minutes of the July 21, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved city department accounts and claims totaling $4,741,667.28, including General Fund, Water & Sewer, Trust & Agency, Metro Narcotics, OPC Activity Fund, and Bond and Interest claims. - Consent agenda approved by unanimous vote, excluding item 3.d.x (hiring two full-time Oxford Police Department employees), which had been removed. - Fixed assets: donated surplus OPD vehicles to Water Valley and Durant police departments; declared an HP printer surplus for disposal. - Miscellaneous: accepted $2,500 from Keep Mississippi Beautiful; approved utility leak adjustments under city policy; accepted the Early Childhood and Reading Development 2026 Summer Board Report. - Travel: approved numerous police training trips, Municipal Clerk Conference, conference center lunch/learn, Municipal Court MCIC training, and planning trips (APA Fly-In and OU Economic Development Institute). - Human resources: approved salary corrections, promotions, hires, transfers, internships, and resignations, including the resignation of CFO Rhonda Burchett effective August 7, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public commented during the public hearing for the University of Mississippi student housing revenue bonds; the hearing was closed after no comments. Financial Administration - June 2026 budget report presented by the CFO: General Fund revenues reached about 80% of the annual budget while expenditures were about 66%; revenue collected through June was about $41 million of a $51 million budget; property tax collections were 95% of budget and sales tax revenue was 81% of budget. No action was required. - Approved the mayor signing the GovEase payment amendment related to the tax sale at the end of August. Oxford School District Ad Valorem Request - Approved the FY26 ad valorem request and resolution from the Oxford School District. Dr. Germain McConnell stated there was no millage increase; the dollar amount increased only because of property values. Aldermen Crowe and Howell-Atkinson left the room during this item; remaining aldermen voted unanimously. Public Hearing and Bond Resolution - Public hearing held for the Public Finance Authority Student Housing Revenue Bonds (PRG – Oxford Properties LLC West Row Project) Series 2026, not to exceed $125,000,000, as required by the IRS code, to finance an approximately 850-bed student housing facility with about 450 service parking spaces on or near the University of Mississippi campus. - Approved the resolution authorizing the bond issuance in an aggregate principal amount not exceeding $125,000,000. The representative noted the bonds will not constitute a debt or general obligation of the state or city. First Readings of Ordinances - Chapter 87 (Neighborhood Code Enforcement): first reading held; housekeeping language change related to city-issued garbage containers. No motion; public hearing set for August 18, 2026. - Chapter 94 (Solid Waste): first reading held on proposed rate changes. The residential rate would increase from $22 to $29 per month per unit ($7, approximately 30%). Staff cited cost-of-living, fuel, and equipment costs, noted the last increase was commercial-only in 2019 and residential rates had not increased in about 12 years, and discussed curbside bulky-item disposal and possible future surcharges. No motion; public hearing set for August 18, 2026. Police Department - Approved a Parade/Assembly permit for Oxford Cycling on August 8, 2026, 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., route from Pat Patterson to Highway 7 and back. - The ZeroEyes, Inc. agreement was held for discussion after executive session; after executive session, the board voted to continue talks to the August 18, 2026 meeting. - Approved Olin Winchester’s request to hire two off-duty patrol officers at $46.00 per hour for a week-long event. Engineering and Development - Approved advertising for bids for the South 14th Street and Tyler Avenue Compactor Enclosure. - Approved Change Order No. 2 for the Fillmore Avenue and South 11th Street Drainage Project, increasing cost about $25,000 because old, active city sewer, gas, and water utilities were discovered and required relocation; staff said no further change orders are expected. - Approved Hodges Construction’s early morning concrete pour at First Security Bank/Ed Perry Blvd Site on August 5 or 6, 2026. - Approved releasing Subdivision Bond 4455439 and final acceptance of Seminole Bluff, Villa West, Phase 1 for Oakmont Oxford, LLC. - Sidewalk closure on Gertrude Ford Blvd for the University of Mississippi School of Accountancy project was not approved; staff was directed to obtain a pedestrian detour plan and return to the board. - Approved supplying 16-inch ductile iron pipe for a new water main serving the asphalt plant on County Road 166 Extended. About 850 additional feet will cost roughly $76,000, funded in the current budget; the developer will lay the pipe, helping a future city water main connection. - Approved a resolution declaring 1.2 acres of city right-of-way along Molly Barr Road between Lamar Boulevard and Chickasaw Road surplus and authorizing its sale to the proposed NOLA development for $545,000. Alderman Hyneman recused; all other aldermen voted aye. Executive Session and Adjournment - The board voted to enter executive session for property acquisition on Buddy East Parkway and Sisk Avenue and police security. The City Clerk left the room during the session. - After returning to regular session, the board voted to continue ZeroEyes discussions to the next regular meeting on August 18, 2026, and then adjourned. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous among aldermen present, with Alderman Hyneman recusing on the Molly Barr Road property sale. - Removed/no action items: emergency purchases from Winter Storm Fern; hiring two full-time OPD employees; Fire Chief Inspector William Stewart retirement resolution (to be presented August 18, 2026); sidewalk closure pending detour plan. - Next meeting: regular Board of Aldermen meeting on August 18, 2026.

The Oxford Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the City Hall Courtroom, presided over by Mayor Robyn Tannehill. All aldermen were present. The meeting covered routine financial approvals, consent agenda items, appointments to city commissions, several development and infrastructure projects, and concluded with an executive session addressing personnel and litigation matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting on July 7, 2026, and the Recess Board of Aldermen meetings on July 13 and July 14, 2026. - Approved accounts for all city departments totaling $4,113,436.20, including General Fund claims, Water & Sewer claims, Trust & Agency claims, Metro Narcotics claims, OPC Activity Fund claims, and Bond and Interest claims. - Approved emergency purchases made in response to Winter Storm Fern (January 23–26, 2026). - Approved the consent agenda as amended (adding items 3.c.xiv, 8.i, and 8.j), which included: - Declaring several items as surplus and authorizing disposal (a 2010 Gillig bus, computers, TVs, laboratory equipment, a Stihl FC96, etc.) from various departments. - Accepting a $500 donation from Crime Stoppers for the Oxford Police Department. - Considering water/sewer bill adjustments per the Oxford Utilities Leak Adjustment Policy. - Approving 14 travel requests for city employees and board members to attend conferences, training, and events, including the Fall Certified Municipal Clerk Program, Mississippi Damage Prevention Summit, IACP Impaired Driving Conference, Washington D.C. trip, and others, with total estimated costs noted per request. - Accepting resignations of Patrol Officer John Dukes (effective July 22) and Records Clerk Larrie Hardy (effective July 31) from the Oxford Police Department. - Promoting Anna Scott to full-time Communications Officer at $41,798.70/year; hiring Ava Gaddis as Patrol Officer at $54,107.60/year; hiring Eden Cain as part-time Communications Officer at $20.00/hour; hiring Gavin Smith as laborer at $40,170.00/year; promoting Jack Roberts to Right of Way Groundsman at $46,612.80/year; hiring Logan Ross as Small Engine Mechanic at $40,170.00/year; granting a 3% step increase to Lavina Dyer for Certified Municipal Clerk certification (salary from $52,960.18 to $54,548.99). - Accepting three grants from the MS Office of Highway Safety (405D Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driving Fund Training Coordination $745,030.52; 402 Police Traffic Services $20,877.30; 405D Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driving Fund Enforcement $199,676.82) for FY27, and authorizing application for the FY26 Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Program grant up to $250,000 with no match required. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Mayor Tannehill highlighted the upcoming St. Jude Dream Home (first in Oxford), with land donated by community members, house built by Josh Samuels, supplies from Maximus Building Supplies, and staging by Something Southern/Mark Huelse. She also announced a public-private partnership with Max South to provide free Wi-Fi in the downtown area, expected to remain functional during high-traffic events. She requested patience from residents as students return for move-in. - Appointments to City Commissions: The board unanimously approved: - Jim Williams to the Courthouse Square Preservation Commission. - Reappointment of Joli Nichols and Priscilla Wright to the Historic Preservation Commission. - Appointment of Marvin Smith (replacing Diane Scruggs) and Dale Riser (replacing Virginia Luckenbach) to the Historic Preservation Commission. - Reappointment of Don Feitel and David Rubenstein to the Pathways Commission. - Reappointment of Alonzo Hilliard to the Affordable Housing Commission. - Economic Development Administration Agreement: The board authorized the mayor to sign an agreement related to transfer station renovations involving the solid waste authority with Three Rivers; the property will remain city-owned and operated. - Parade/Assembly Permits: Approved permits for Visit Oxford to host Third Thursday—Music in the Park on four dates (Sept 17, Oct 17, Nov 19, Dec 17, 2026, 5:00–7:00 PM) and for the Oxford-Lafayette Chamber of Commerce to host Shop Oxford on November 14, 2026, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM. - Subdivision Approvals: - Case 3371: Final plat for ‘The Heights, Phase 6’ (15 lots and common area, 2.5 acres off Devonshire Drive) approved with two conditions from the Planning Commission. - Case 3372: Preliminary and Final plat for ‘Montecito Medical’ subdivision (14.5 acres on Mississippi Highway 6) approved with two conditions and related variances. - Special Projects: - Authorized advertising for bids to coat the roof of the Old Activity Center (27-year-old roof; liquid silicon-based system recommended). - Approved Change Order No. 1 from RKA Construction for the Development Services Annex Building (reconfiguring office space to meet ADA and natural light needs) at a maximum amount of $23,979.21. - Authorized advertising for bids for an Audio Visual System in the Development Services Annex building, similar to the system in the courtroom. - Engineering Department Items: - Authorized advertising for 2026-2027 material bids (gravel, asphalt, pipe, etc.). - Authorized advertising for bids for the Oxford Square Crosswalk Lighting In-Pavement Project (pedestrian-actuated blinking lights). - Approved extended work hours for concrete pours at Bramlett Elementary on either August 5, 6, or 7, 2026, weather permitting. - Approved early concrete pours for the Oxford Station Project at Oxford Way (student housing) beginning July 24 through October 2026, with restrictions: no pours on Ole Miss home football weekends and the board retains the right to rescind approval if complaints arise. - Approved water service extension for Oak Hill Development along County Road 101 (outside city limits, water only, extension of 2,000-3,000 feet within certificated area). - Authorized submission of a modification request to the MCWI Grant Program to transfer $86,000 in leftover funds from the Highway 7 water/sewer relocation project to the North Lamar Sewer project to cover a budget overrun. - Approved the low bid of $1,135,500 from Donald Smith Company, Inc. for the mTrade Wells No. 3 and No. 4 Project (two additional wells for the future water treatment plant). - Approved Change Order No. 1 for the Gus Booker Sewer Project (final quantity change order to add individual sewer services to houses along Gus Booker Road). - Approved the request from Montgomery Martin Contractors to close the intersection of Heritage Drive and Anderson Road for paving operations on July 30, 2026 (one day, rather than the originally requested July 22-23). - Approved overnight work hours for the Belle at Oxford Commons (metal roof installation) from Wednesday, July 22 through Friday, July 24, 2026. Executive Session - The board voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss personnel matters in the Oxford Police Department and potential litigation concerning the Anderson Road water main, Thacker Road sidewalk, and a dirt-moving project on Highway 7. The City Clerk left the room. - During executive session, the board: - Suspended Wilmer Diaz from the Oxford Police Department for three days for violation of City Policy. - Terminated contractor Jeff Williams for the Thacker Road sidewalk project and directed that the work be done in-house. - Regarding the Anderson Road water main project, the board was informed of the contractor’s problems, delays, insufficient staffing, construction/testing issues, and impacts on traffic and adjoining properties. The board authorized the city engineer to provide a notice of intent to terminate the contractor, and to terminate the contract if no cure is made within the contractually allowed time. - Discussed possible litigation by an attorney for Gary Lane related to the Highway 7 dirt-moving project and was briefed on surrounding circumstances. - The board returned to regular session and adjourned to recess until August 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the City Hall Courtroom.