Development News for Meridian, Mississippi

City Council Approves Entertainment for July 4th, 2026 Celebration Marking America's 250th Anniversary

The City Council approved an entertainment contract for the July 4th, 2026 celebration, coinciding with America's 250th anniversary. The event will feature a kids' zone from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on the City Hall lawn, followed by a 250th-anniversary parade at 5:00 PM. The celebration will include a concert on the City Hall lawn featuring blues legend Mr. Bobby Rush, Meridian's own American Idol Mr. Jamal Roberts, The Voice winner Mr. Todd Tillman, and opening act Mr. Daniel House. The event will conclude with a fireworks display. The budget for this celebration is within the allocated funds.

City to Apply for USDA Grant to Promote Farmers Market

The City Council authorized the Mayor or their designate to apply for a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farmers Market Promotional Program for fiscal year 2026. This two-year project aims to support and promote the farmers market that operates Monday through Friday under the bridge near Union Station during the summer. Funds will be used for updating signage and advertising. The grant requires a $10,000 match, which will primarily be in-kind services from the community development team, with potential cash outlay covered by tourism and Visit Meridian funds if needed.

Councilman Elliot Encourages Safety, Citizen Participation, and Updates on Meeting Schedule

Councilman Elliot urged residents to be safe during summer travels and for parents to be mindful of children playing outdoors. He thanked the city directors and citizens for their participation, wishing more residents would attend council meetings to observe the conduct of business and the spending of taxpayer dollars. He also requested prayers for Miss Joanne, who had a setback. The next city council meeting is scheduled for June 19th, with the work session on June 16th (the fourth Tuesday of June due to MML conference attendance).

Preliminary Engineering Services Approved for Medical District Completion Project

The City Council authorized the execution of Test Order Number 11 with Neil Schaefer for preliminary engineering services for the medical district completion project. The engineering work is expected to be completed, with the project ready for advertising, by September. The funds for this service will be drawn from the engineering professional services budget.