Public Meetings - Southaven, Mississippi

The Southaven Mayor and Board of Aldermen met on November 3, 2026, beginning with an invocation by Reverend Andrew Flowers of Apostolate Revival Church and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman Jerome. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the meeting transcript. The board approved appointments, contracts, resolutions, and dockets, and held extended discussion on the proposed indoor tennis facility and capital project financing. Consent Calendar - Approved the previous meeting's minutes. - Approved the personnel docket. - Approved the utilities billing leak adjustment docket for $5,089.80. - Approved the claims docket for $5,591,057.76, including demand checks. - Approved a resolution to clean private property; no one with a financial interest came forward to speak. Appointments - DeCrua board appointment: Ray Humphrey was appointed as the city's representative to the DeSoto County Regional Utility Authority, replacing Chris Wilson. The mayor thanked Wilson for his service. - Planning commission: Chuck Roberts was appointed as the Ward 6 planning commissioner, nominated by Alderman Flores and seconded, replacing Commissioner Brewer. Discussion Items - Landscape maintenance revision: The board awarded the full landscape maintenance contract to Michael Hatcher and terminated the other contractor after questions about quality and a high quote. One contractor's quote for interstate work was $83,000, later lowered by $30,000 after questioning. Hatcher's work was praised by department heads. - OSB Services contract: Authorized the mayor to sign the contract for the police department generator project in the amount of $194,850, as recommended by engineering. - Surplus property and utilities: Authorized a resolution declaring specified utility department property surplus under state law. - Snowden Grove Arch sign bids: Rejected all bids because the lowest bid was above the budgeted amount, and authorized rebidding. The project was to be paid with tourism revenue. - Urban Arc master contract renewal: Approved an updated master contract with the same task-order process, newer rates, and an inspection schedule of two per month during construction. - Fire and Police Training Facility task order: Approved Urban Arc Task Order 27 for spatial needs assessment, technology review, site analysis, architectural site master plans, and conceptual design services. Funding for this project was described as cash already received in a separate account, not future tax revenue. - Indoor tennis task orders: Approved two task orders, one with Urban Arc for architectural services for an estimated 9,000-square-foot indoor tennis facility and one with Civil Link for engineering, surveying, geotech, site grading, parking expansion, and water and sewer work. - Sole source purchase: Approved a resolution for the sole source purchase of Aloha point-of-sale equipment from Hospitality Control Systems for $119,617.61, identified as the only seller of Aloha. Indoor Tennis and Capital Improvement Discussion - During discussion of the tennis task orders, the mayor recommended designing for eight indoor courts rather than twelve, saying high construction costs and the use of general fund dollars made a larger facility unwise. He noted the city had about 40 percent debt capacity remaining but was uneasy about a larger general obligation bond. - The mayor said the eight-court option would need roughly $16 million in general fund backing after using about $11 million in tourism revenue; a twelve-court facility would be substantially more expensive. - Alderman Flores questioned the mayor's caution, pointed to past successful city park investments, and advocated for a bolder approach, including possibly using future tax revenue from data center development. - Urban Arc's Brian Bullers said the building can be designed as a modular facility for six to twelve courts; the proposed task order plans for eight courts with an option to reduce to six. - The board did not make a final court-count decision. The mayor said Raymond James would present a bond proposal in December, and a workshop was planned to discuss roundabouts and the Cherry Valley Park entrance road before that meeting. Mayor's Report and Other Items - The mayor reported the West End Retro Run 5K had about 280 runners and was an outstanding event the city hopes to make annual. - He promoted the Veterans Day luncheon on Wednesday, November 11 at 11 a.m. at the community safe room; reservations are required through Christy Faulkner. - He cited roundabout data, saying roundabouts decrease intersection fatalities by 80 percent, and discussed a proposed Cherry Valley Park entrance road connecting the park to Highway 51 with a 10-foot pedestrian trail and landscaping. - Legal update: Approved a copier contract for the court department from RJ Young under the state contract for $9,325 plus maintenance, and approved a task order for the amphitheater. - The board voted to enter executive session for potential impending litigation, economic development, fire personnel, and interdepartmental personnel, with no action to follow. Key Outcomes - All listed appointments, contracts, resolutions, dockets, and task orders were approved. - The board rejected the Snowden Grove Arch sign bids and authorized rebidding. - The full landscape maintenance contract was awarded to Michael Hatcher; the other contractor was terminated. - The indoor tennis task orders were approved, but the number of courts and the final financing method were deferred to a later workshop and bond presentation.

The Southaven City Board met on October 20, 2026, to address a full agenda of routine approvals, planning items, and updates from the mayor and city attorney. All votes were unanimous. The mayor highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, street resurfacing, and the rebranding of the city's golf course. The board also authorized an executive session for litigation, economic development, and personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (October 6, 2026): Unanimously approved. Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Jerome. - Engagement Letter with Lewis & Ellis Actuaries: For GASB 75 audit, $10,000 total ($5,000 per year for 2026 and 2027). Motion by Alderman Flores, second by Alderman Wheeler. Unanimous aye vote. - Police Department Contract with Pitney Bowes: Five-year lease for meter. Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Jerome. Unanimous roll call. - Resolution for IT Surplus Property: Authorized in accordance with 17-25-25. Motion by Alderman Flores, second by Alderman Jenkins. Unanimous. - Authority to Seek Bids for Skid Steer (Utilities): Reverse auction authorized; bids to return for approval. Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Payne. Unanimous. - Resolution for Filing Tax Assessments: Final batch for the year, rolling unpaid liens into property assessments. Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Jenkins. Unanimous. - Bid for Police Department Generator Modification: Awarded to OSB Services for $194,850 (budgeted $175,000; funded from facilities renovations line). Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Jenkins. Unanimous. - Police Department Contract with Motorola: Vehicle manager/commercial data/ALPR tool; $9,000/year for five years plus $330 setup. Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Payne. Unanimous. - Interlocal Agreements with DeSoto County, Ala Branch, and Walls: For JAG grants ($12,000 and $13,864 allocated to Southaven). Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Jenkins. Unanimous. - Resolution to Clean Private Property: Authorized. No public comment from those with financial interest. Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Hoot. Unanimous. Planning Agenda - Tax Incentive Program Approval for 550 State Line Road (Rural King): Rural King will occupy 95,000 sq ft of the former Kmart building. Total investment $19 million ($3 million building improvements). Board approved the concept; final resolution to return. Motion by Alderman Jenkins, second by Alderman Hoot. Unanimous. - Conditional Use Permit for Auto Repair at 905 Town and Country Suite F: One-year with four-year extension. Planning commission unanimous. Motion by Alderman Jenkins, second by Alderman Hoot. Unanimous. - Conditional Use Permit for Barbershop at 3038 Goodman Road East: One-year with four-year extension. Complies with half-mile radius rule. Planning commission unanimous. Motion by Alderman Wheeler, second by Alderman Flores. Unanimous. - Conditional Use Permit for Auto Repair at 8600-8668 Whitworth Street: Three buildings (former Kawasaki site). Conditions for improvements. Planning commission unanimous. Motion by Alderman Jenkins, second by Alderman Hoot. Unanimous. - Correction to Mace One Lot Subdivision Plat: Title block error in section/township/range; corrected to Section 18, Township 1 South, Range 7 West. Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Payne. Unanimous. Mayor's Report Mayor provided updates: - State Line Road Widening: Project to three lanes will begin soon; traffic challenges expected during construction. - Star Landing / Sweeney Roundabout: Under construction; city pressing for schedule adherence. - Street Resurfacing: Underway this week using $7.5 million budget for 2027. Work in October/November, then resume early 2027. - Greenbrook Nine Golf Course: Rebranded from Southaven Golf Center; enhancements include new fence, beer sales (increased revenue), and a brick monument sign. 18 holes for $26. Personnel Docket Approved unanimously. Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Hoot. City Attorney's Legal Update Items approved collectively: - Lease for True Word previously authorized; no action. - Agreement with National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for police department. - Authorization of funds for Southhaven Retro 5K (per MS Code 17-31). - State Line Road widening project: Bid awarded to Endscore LLC for $1,636,603 (lowest and best, including additive alternative). Motion by Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Payne. All approved unanimously. Utilities Billing Leak Adjustment Docket Approved unanimously. Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Hoot. Claims Docket Approved in the amount of $4,352,641.67 including demand checks. Motion by Alderman Payne, second by Alderman Flores. Unanimous. Executive Session - Motion to determine need: Alderman Gallagher, second by Alderman Wheeler. Unanimous aye. Need: litigation, economic development, interdepartmental personnel (no action). - Motion to declare executive session: Alderman Hoot, second by Alderman Jerome. Unanimous. The board entered executive session.

The meeting was called to order at approximately 22:55 (UTC) by the Mayor, followed by a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Alderman George Payne. The agenda included approval of minutes, swearing-in of the Mayor's Youth Council, insurance renewals, an interlocal agreement for a mental health crisis center, several routine resolutions, contract awards, a planning item, and a mayor's report. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Mayor's Youth Council Swearing-In - New members from North Point Christian School, DeSoto Central High School, and Southaven High School were sworn in for the 2026-2027 term. Sponsors Tim Gardner, Terry Bowler, and Danny Mann were thanked. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously without substantive discussion: - Approval of minutes from September 1, 2026, and September 8, 2026 (special meeting). - City health insurance renewal with Blue Cross Blue Shield at a flat premium (no increase). Dental envision had a minor adjustment of $1–$2. - Property casualty insurance renewal with Travelers. Premium flat at $2,348,000 except workers' compensation increase due to payroll adjustments; starting premium $2,566,746 with end-of-year audit adjustment. - Citizens agenda ordinance codifying existing rules (sign-up by noon Friday, 3-minute limit, 15-minute total, decorum). - Surplus of firearm for retiring Sergeant Jonathan Ellis (22 years of service, U.S. Army veteran). - BCN Telecom Service Wireless Agreement with AT&T for the Southaven West Precinct at $22,695 per month for drone and ICAC machines. - Resolution for assessments converting liens to tax assessments per Mississippi Code 21-19-11. - Resolution for FY27 donations as budgeted. - Fuel tank relocation project award to Altera Construction for $520,850. - Planning agenda: amendment to Silo Square PUD to allow a senior living campus (independent living, assisted living, golf cart community) as an alternative to cottage homes; increased open space, decreased density; unanimously recommended by planning commission. - Donation docket. - Personnel docket. - City attorney's legal update: ratification of emergency repairs ($45,211.25) at north and south wells at Wentworth; surplus of 2011 Ford F-150; renewal of legal contract for Buttons for an additional year. - Utility building leak adjustment docket. - Claims docket totaling $4,528,314.19 including demand checks. Discussion Items - Interlocal Agreement with DeSoto County for Mental Health Crisis Center: The county proposed using funds from national opioid settlements. Southaven has received $376,000 to date and projects $41,224 for FY27. Other cities (Hernando and Olive Branch) are contributing 50% and approximately $35,000 respectively. The Mayor advocated for supporting the facility due to long-distance patient transports and police involvement with mentally ill individuals. After discussion, the board approved a motion to contribute a minimum of $35,000 with discretion up to 100% (full projected amount) and authorized the mayor to sign the interlocal. Vote: unanimous. - Award of Term Contracts for Asphalt Materials and Asphalt Overlay: Low bids received: materials from Lehman Roberts ($4,049,800); overlay primary from Falcon Contracting ($3,214,750), alternate from Lehman Roberts ($4,005,550). The board approved both awards after a light comment about the mayor monitoring street conditions. Vote: unanimous. Mayor's Report - Street paving: New contractor (Falcon Contracting) will begin early in the budget year while weather is favorable (above 45°F required). - Multi-use trail updates: Over $10 million spent on pedestrian projects since 2015 (Greenprint 2040). The longest paved trail in DeSoto County history now connects Airways to Malone Road via Greenbrook, Clarington, Central Park, Silo Square, and Stone Grove Park. A new MPO-funded extension from Central Parkway south to Church Road will start construction in spring 2027, connecting to DeSoto Central High School. - State Line Road widening project: Fully funded, going out for bid soon; will widen from two lanes to three lanes from Highway 51 to Horn Lake Road. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (6-0) on every item requiring board action. - The board voted to enter executive session for litigation/claims involving city infrastructure, potential economic development, and interdepartmental personnel matters (no action expected).

The city council met to adopt the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and tax millage, and to approve a memorandum of understanding with the North Mississippi Hummingbird Foundation regarding the hummingbird garden at Stone Grove Park. Both items passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Budget Adoption: The council adopted a resolution fixing the ad valorem tax levy on real and personal property and establishing budget appropriations and expenditures for fiscal year 2026-2027. The motion was made by Alderman Payne, seconded by Alderman Wheeler, and passed unanimously by roll call vote. - Memorandum of Understanding with North Mississippi Hummingbird Foundation: The council discussed and approved an MOU to formalize roles and responsibilities for the hummingbird garden at Stone Grove Park. The garden and annual hummingbird festival, now in its second year in Southaven, bring tourism and quality of life benefits. The MOU grants a small easement at the garden entrance for the foundation to place memorial bricks and clarifies that the garden remains public property. The foundation provides expertise and coordinates the festival with the parks director. The motion was made by Alderman Gallagher, seconded by Alderman Jenkins, and passed unanimously by roll call vote. Key Outcomes - Adopted the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and tax millage (unanimous). - Approved MOU with North Mississippi Hummingbird Foundation (unanimous). - Meeting adjourned. Note: No public comments or consent calendar items were present.

The Southaven Mayor and Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting on September 1, 2026, to present the proposed FY27 budget, approve multiple planning items, discuss data center noise concerns, and handle routine approvals. The meeting opened with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by approval of minutes from August 18, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes from August 18, 2026: Passed unanimously (7-0). - Personnel Docket: Approved unanimously. - Utilities Billing Leak Adjustment Docket: Approved unanimously. - Claims Docket in the amount of $2,371,060.43: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on FY27 Budget: No members of the public spoke. The hearing was opened and closed with no comments. - Citizen Agenda Ordinance Discussion: No public testimony was taken; the item was deferred for further review. Discussion Items - FY27 Budget Presentation: Caleb Flowers, Director of Finance, presented the proposed balanced budget. Total general fund budget increases from $83.3 million (FY26) to $87.9 million (FY27). Key components: 6% pay raises for police and fire, new ambulance for fire ($360,000), street resurfacing increase from $7 million to $7.5 million, parks concessions software upgrade ($150,000), facility renovation projects ($750,000 total), and no millage rate change. Sales tax revenue projected to increase from $21.5M to $22.3M. The board will formally adopt the budget at a special meeting on September 8, 2026. - Engineering Work Authorization – Police/Fire Training Facility: Authorized Civil Link to begin engineering for drainage and road access. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Renewal of General Engineering Contract with Civil Link: Two-year renewal on same terms. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Governmental Transfer Resolution – Van to Town of Walls: Authorized transfer of a surplus SWAT van to the Town of Walls. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Final Change Order and Closeout – Whitworth Water Plant: Approved a deduct change order of $14,434.67 and signed closeout documents for MDEQ. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Resolution for Filing Assessments (Liens): Authorized liens on properties cut in accordance with state code. Passed unanimously (7-0). - Resolution to Clean Private Property: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Ordinance Amendment – Official Citizen Agenda: The board discussed codifying existing practices (3-minute limit, 15-minute total, document submission by noon Friday, decorum rules). Alderman Jerome requested time to send recommendations, so the item was deferred to the next meeting for a vote. - Mayor's Report – Data Centers and Noise Issues: Mayor discussed ongoing noise concerns from temporary turbines at the SpaceX AI data center. He stated 11 turbines had been removed, acoustic engineers were on site, and the company was working on mitigation. He emphasized the project’s national security implications and the need for accurate public information. He also highlighted the largest soccer tournament in city history (123 teams) and the completed Cherry Valley Park renovation (new fencing, security cameras, lighting, trails, parking, and painting). - Planning Agenda: 1. MZX Tech Subdivision Approval: One-lot heavy industrial lot (combined parcels). Unanimously approved (7-0). 2. MZX Tech Data Storage Facility – Design Review: 660,000 sq ft metal building with black decorative fencing and landscaping. Alderman Hoot voted no due to unfulfilled promises on noise mitigation from previous projects. Approved 6-1. 3. Three-Tenant Retail Building – Goodman Road: Design review with brick and copper accents. Approved unanimously (7-0). 4. One-Story Restaurant – DeSoto District Drive: 5,600 sq ft building matching adjacent structures. Approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - FY27 Budget Adoption: Scheduled for a special meeting on September 8, 2026. - Engineering Contracts and Work Authorizations: All passed unanimously. - Data Center Noise Mitigation: Mayor confirmed ongoing efforts; board will continue to monitor. - Citizen Agenda Ordinance: Deferred to next meeting for revisions. - Planning Approvals: All four items approved, with one dissenting vote on the data storage facility design. - Executive Session: Motion passed to enter executive session for potential litigation, economic development, and interdepartmental personnel matters (no action taken publicly).

Mayor Darren Musselwhite presided over the regular meeting of the Southaven City Council on August 18, 2026. All aldermen were present. The agenda included routine approvals, a major economic development announcement involving a land swap with an affiliate of SpaceX AI, a public hearing on property maintenance, and several other items. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the August 4, 2026 meeting were approved. - Atmos Energy Award: August was recognized as National Safe Digging Month; Atmos Energy presented the city with a Gold Cup for safe digging practices. The award was accepted by the utilities team. - MSES Contract: Authorized a master contract with MSES for decontamination of police vehicles, allowing case-by-case use without board approval. - Police Vehicle Purchase: Approved the purchase of 16 Dodge Durangos from Landers Dodge at state contract pricing totaling $690,288 (contract 8200-83285). - Surplus Firearm for Detective Tim Yancey: Approved a resolution to surplus a firearm to Detective Yancey in recognition of his service. - Consultant Selection for Road Projects: Approved the selection of a consultant for preliminary engineering for the Airways Road Resurfacing Project and the Getwell Road Walking Path, pending MDOT guidelines. - Grenada Railroad Permit Agreement: Approved a $350,000 permit fee with Grenada Railroad for the State Line Road project, with the railroad performing the required work. - Personnel Docket: Approved as presented. - Utility Bill Leak Adjustment Docket: Approved as presented. - Claims Docket: Approved in the amount of $5,199,080.95, including demand checks. Public Comments & Testimony - Property Maintenance Resolution: A property owner of 3965 Liscock and 2184 Ashland (speaking on behalf of himself and his wife) requested removal from the list of properties to be cleaned by the city. He claimed the grass had been recently mowed. Code Enforcement Officer Victor stated the property was inspected that day and had tall grass (approximately 18-20 inches). The board explained that being on the list does not automatically incur charges if the owner maintains the property, and the owner assured they would cut the grass the next day. The board approved the resolution. Discussion Items - Expansion of Leisure and Recreation District: Nick Manley presented a resolution to expand the existing leisure and recreation district in the Snowden District to include newly developed areas. The district allows open containers of alcoholic beverages, identical to the Silo district. The mayor noted that the district promotes walkability and entertainment. Alderman expressed support, and the resolution was approved unanimously. - Mayor’s Report – Land Swap with MZX Tech LLC (SpaceX AI affiliate): Mayor Musselwhite announced that the city has agreed to exchange its police/fire training center property on Two Lane Road for a larger property on Sweeney (south of State Line Road, adjacent to 20 acres already owned by the city) plus $40 million. The funds will be used to build new, state-of-the-art training facilities. The mayor emphasized the project’s economic impact, calling it the most influential in DeSoto County and Mississippi history, and noted national security implications. The deal was approved by the board. - Proclamation – Never Give Up Day: The mayor read a proclamation declaring August 18, 2026 as “Never Give Up Day” in Southaven, encouraging perseverance and resilience. - Planning Agenda – Conditional Use Permit: A request for a conditional use permit for a hair braiding and extension salon at 8020 Highway 51 North was presented. The required half-mile radius survey showed the nearest similar businesses were 1.2 and 1.4 miles away. The planning commission recommended approval with a one-year permit and four-year extension, with one dissenting vote (Commissioner Wilkinson). The board approved the permit unanimously, with a note to address windows covered in posters. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously except where noted (planning commission had one dissenting vote, but board vote was unanimous). - Approved expansion of the leisure and recreation district. - Approved purchase of 16 police vehicles. - Approved resolution to clean private properties; property owners were advised to maintain their lots to avoid charges. - Approved conditional use permit for the hair braiding salon. - Approved the land swap agreement with MZX Tech LLC, including $40 million payment to the city for new police/fire training facilities. - Authorized executive session for police department personnel, claims, land acquisition, economic development, and interdepartmental personnel (no action expected). The meeting then moved into executive session.

The Board of Aldermen of Southaven, Mississippi, met on August 5, 2026, and addressed a range of topics including approval of minutes, a task order for an indoor tennis complex concept, ordinance amendments, sole source purchases, planning applications, and received reports from the mayor and city attorney. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 21, 2026): Motion carried unanimously. - Ordinance Amendment (Title 13, Chapter 16, Sections 13-16): Clarified that a registered surveyor (not engineer) may certify plats. Unanimous. - Sole Source Purchase – Crawler Cable for Robotic Camera: Authorized $9,500 plus $925 installation with ICM. Unanimous. - Ratification of Contract – Mid-South Environmental Services: Remediation of drug-contaminated police car. Unanimous. - Resolution to File Liens and Assessments: For properties cut under ordinance 21-19-11. Unanimous. - Resolution to Clean Private Property: Authorized cleanup of specified private properties. Unanimous. - Personnel Docket: Approved as presented. Unanimous. - Utilities Billing Adjustment Docket: Approved. Unanimous. - Claims Docket: Approved in the amount of $4,625,519.31 (including demand checks). Unanimous. Discussion Items - Task Order for Indoor Tennis Complex Concept: The board approved a task order with Urban Arc to design an indoor tennis complex. Discussion centered on building size (8, 10, or 12 courts) and design approach. Aldermen supported a freestanding build that would allow a central pro shop and a viewing overhang. The design will include demolition of the existing facility and will present options for 8, 10, and 12 courts. Estimated cost discussed as $8-10 million (possibly $12 million). Motion carried unanimously. - Planning Agenda: - Item 1 – Single Lot Subdivision (1.83 acres): For a towing facility at State Line Airways Boulevard (M1 zone). All requirements met; approved unanimously. - Item 2 – Design Review for Towing Facility: Based on prior conditional use permit conditions, the design now meets requirements: brick and stone veneer on metal building, decorative fencing, 12-vehicle storage limit, 24/7 security, and enhanced landscaping. Recommended as submitted; approved unanimously. - Item 3 – Mixed-Use Buildings in Silo Square: Two buildings (one for bank/realtor/mortgage with upstairs lofts) north of Lucky Dog's Corner, mimicking existing architecture. Landscape plan already approved through PUD text. Approved unanimously. - Item 4 – Scrivener's Error for Centerbrook Subdivision: Corrected side yard setback from 3 feet to 5 feet to comply with 2024 building codes. Approved unanimously. Mayor's Report - Budget Workshop: Scheduled for August 6, 2026 at 9:30 AM. A balanced budget proposal, prepared with Finance Director Caleb Flowers, will be presented with department heads. - Pro Tennis Tournament: Currently underway with 60 male and 70 female professional players. - LED Lighting Project: Replacement of lights at Greenbrook Park and Snowden Grove Park; underway, completion by September 1. - Johns Creek Bridge Project: Drainage improvement in Summerwood neighborhood; ongoing, expected completion in October 2026. - Airways Boulevard Resurfacing: From Nell Road North to Goodman; MPO funding approved; bids open in September, construction in October–November 2026. - I-55 Widening: From Goodman Road to Church Road (4 to 10 lanes); state legislature funding; utility relocation ongoing; bids expected November 2026, construction spring 2027. - Animal Shelter Recognition: Named best of 2025 by a business rating organization for the second consecutive year. City Attorney's Legal Update Approved unanimously as a package: - Authorization to advertise for Airways Boulevard resurfacing. - Approval of entry contract for LED lights at Cherry Valley (parks). - Resolution to terminate lease contract with Tower Ventures (telecommunications tower). - Sole source purchase of MRL Mini Mac 400 thermoplastic detail striper and trailer from Mark Wright Lines Equipment Company Inc. for $377,030.73. - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Southaven, Olive Branch, and DeCrew for Nalaho Creek Pipeline analysis; cost share not to exceed $12,000. Executive Session - Motion to enter executive session for claims and litigation involving city infrastructure, potential property easement access, economic development, and interdepartmental personnel (no action). Motion carried. Key Outcomes - All motions presented during the regular session passed unanimously. Roll call votes recorded for each item showed all six aldermen (Payne, Jenkins, Hoot, Jerome, Gallagher, Wheeler) voting "Yes" and no opposition. - No public comment was received. - The board adjourned into executive session.

The Southaven Board of Aldermen met on July 21, 2026, to consider routine approvals, property code amendments, land use permits, and major capital expenditures funded from excess surplus. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 7, 2026) – Passed. - Surplus Police Vehicles – Authorized disposal of seized and decommissioned vehicles. - Final Change Order – Church Road Utility Relocation – Deduct of $127,719.56 for I-55 expansion preparation. - Emergency Repair – Whitworth Water Plant – Ratified $31,627 repair of shaft and pump to prevent service interruption. - Award Bid – Star Landing & Sweeney Road Roundabout – Awarded to Endscore LLC for $767,709. - Authorization to Seek Asphalt Supply Bids – To replace expiring Lehman Roberts contract. - Bank Plus Amphitheater Contract – Lease for Luke Ryan concert. - Authorization to File Liens & Assessments – For properties mowed under city code. - Authorization to Seek Mini Excavator Bids – Budgeted item for Public Works. - Personnel Docket – Approved as presented. - Donation Docket – Animal shelter donations from Silo Grocery and other donors. - Utility Billing Leak Adjustment Docket – Approved. - Claims Docket – $3,018,651.40 including demand checks. - Surplus Copier (Parks) – Asset 5926 authorized for disposal. Public Comments & Testimony - No member of the public spoke during the meeting. During the resolution to clean private property, the mayor asked if anyone present had a financial interest in the listed properties; none did. Discussion Items - Resolution – Property Maintenance Code Amendment – Added Section 2.11 requiring interior window coverings (blinds, shutters, shades) visible from a public street to be in good repair; prohibited broken or temporary materials. Staff noted the measure balances property preservation with avoiding hardship. - Resolution – Abandoned Property Ordinance Amendment – Allowed Southaven Police Department to petition municipal court (rather than circuit court) for possession of abandoned property not related to seizures or evidence. Example: unclaimed money. Must follow 120-day advertisement period. - Planning Item 3 – Denial of Smoke/Vape Store (1715 Main Street) – Planning Commission recommended denial due to failure to meet half-mile distance requirement and conflict with West End district revitalization goals. Applicant had expressed interest in converting to a grocery store but had not provided sufficient details. Denial upheld. - Mayor's Report: Street Striping Package – Mayor proposed using $380,000 from excess surplus to purchase thermoplastic striping equipment (up from prior $200,000 estimate due to inflation). Allows in-house striping, improving safety and responsiveness. - Mayor's Report: Emergency Server Purchase – Approved $275,000 emergency purchase of a main server (up from earlier estimates due to AI-driven demand). Replacement of 2019 unit; cost rising $25,000/month. Funded from excess surplus. - Mayor's Report: Fuel Pump Relocation – Authorized $750,000 from excess surplus to relocate city fuel pumps from former East Precinct (land swap) to Freeman Lane near park maintenance. Design by Civilink complete; ready to bid. - Mayor's Report – Street Resurfacing Update – City’s $7 million/year program is behind schedule; contractor has not completed list. Assured citizens streets will be resurfaced. - Budget Process Update – Budget workshop August 6, public hearing September 1, special meeting for adoption September 8. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous with roll call as follows (Aldermen present: Payne, Lewis, Hoot, Jerome, Gallagher, Wheeler, Flores): All ayes on every item. - The board entered executive session for discussion of personnel and legal matters. - The mayor directed staff to proceed with the street striping package, server purchase, and fuel pump relocation using excess surplus. - The planning item denying the smoke/vape store was approved as recommended.

The Southaven Board of Aldermen met on July 7, 2026, to discuss the parks enhancement plan, approve multiple routine items, and swear in a new fire chief. The meeting was called to order with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance. All votes were unanimous unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the June 16 and June 25, 2026 meetings. - Unanimously authorized seeking bids for Snowden Grove overhead arch signs (three locations) using remaining funds from the 2022 parks plan. - Approved an amendment to the employee handbook to include hair follicle drug testing for law enforcement officers in accordance with new Mississippi law (Sections 45-6-16 and 45-6-17). - Approved a revised lease with the GSA for the FBI office, adding an anti-DEI statement per President Trump's executive order; no changes to lease terms. - Granted a motor vehicle for hire permit to RCM Works Elite Luxury Treatment (Karen Johnson). - Granted a motor vehicle for hire permit to RCM Works Elite Luxury Transport (Karen Johnson). - Approved a contract amendment with Premier Lawn and Turf for maintenance of Nell Road islands (24 visits/year at $2,257/month, revised from a higher amount). The amendment was previously tabled and then brought off the table. - Authorized the surplus of wrecked or unserviceable police department vehicles. - Adopted a resolution to clean private properties as presented. - Approved the personnel docket as presented. - Authorized a purchase and maintenance agreement for a printer for the Parks Department ($6,895). - Approved the utilities billing leak adjustment docket. - Approved the claims docket in the amount of $3,227,342.62. - Approved a motion to enter executive session for specific legal and personnel matters. Discussion Items - Parks Enhancement Plan (Indoor Tennis): The mayor presented a proposal to prioritize indoor tennis courts at Snowden Grove Park as the next major parks investment, funded by tourism tax revenue projected at $13.75 million through 2030. The city has experienced rapid growth in tennis participation since 2016, becoming the state's top tennis complex in 2024. The mayor cited benefits: 365-day revenue stream, tournament capabilities, youth development, and economic attraction. Alderman Payne advocated for 12 courts instead of 6 to surpass regional competitors and set a regional standard. Alderman Wheeler supported moving forward with the nets at Snowden and Greenbrook (LED lighting) first, as originally prioritized. The mayor noted liability concerns with a proposed dog park near a children's playground, but said a dog park could still be pursued elsewhere. No action was taken; the board agreed to revisit the issue on a future agenda with updated cost estimates. - Property Maintenance Code Amendment: The mayor introduced a proposed addition to the city's blighted property violations: ban on broken blinds, sheets, foil, or other non-manufactured window coverings visible from the street. The mayor emphasized this was for discussion only, noting the item negatively impacts curb appeal and can signal drug activity. The board discussed and decided to consider it further at a later meeting. Key Outcomes - New Fire Chief Trey Bledsoe was sworn in. He joined the fire department in 1999 and rose through the ranks. - The planning agenda included unanimous approval of a design review application for DeSoto District LLC (coffee shop and bank near Silas Square) and vacation of a portion of Two Lane Road (approx. half-mile, 80-foot wide) to be split between the city and Duke Energy, effective August 1, 2026. - The mayor reported on the successful Disney Dean World Series and the Mississippi Municipal League Conference. - Several items were approved without debate: personnel docket, printer purchase, utility adjustments, and claims docket. Next Steps - The board will consider updated cost estimates for indoor tennis (including option for 12 courts) and other parks priorities (dog park, fencing/netting) at a future meeting. - The property maintenance code amendment will be discussed further before any formal action.