Development News for Picayune, Mississippi

K9 Penny Donated to Perver County Joint Search and Rescue; Cost-Effectiveness Cited

The council considered a request to donate K9 Penny, a bloodhound, to the Perver County Joint Search and Rescue. Penny, who is eight years old, was acquired by the department two years ago. Her handler left for another position, requiring the department to incur costs for a new handler class, which is expensive. This is in addition to costs for training a younger patrol dog. Donating Penny is presented as a cost-effective and efficient solution, as she was a 'luxury, not a necessity.' The department believes they can still rely on Penny's assistance if needed due to their good relationship with the joint search and rescue team. The motion to donate Penny was made by Councilwoman Turners and seconded by Councilman Hickman. The motion passed.

Budget Amendment Passed to Fund New Financial Software

The council considered a request to approve a budget amendment and publication of a resolution for the acquisition of financial software. The amendment's sole purpose is to allocate funds necessary for contracting with the software company. The council is expected to approve the contract at the next meeting, but the budget must be in place to proceed. Councilman Breland made the motion to approve, seconded by Councilwoman Turnage. The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Details Progress on Infrastructure, Community Beautification, and Memorial Projects

During the Mayor's updates, various projects and initiatives were discussed. A lighting project on Highland Parkway is nearing completion, with most light poles installed. Forest Health has partnered in this endeavor, which is seen as crucial for safety, especially with a new sleep study center and businesses opening nearby. The mayor also mentioned plans to lobby for federal funds. Plans are underway to enhance Christmas decorations city-wide to create a festive atmosphere, inspired by 'Hallmark movie' aesthetics. This initiative has already raised nearly $40,000 towards a $100,000 goal, with significant contributions from Forest Health and Mr. Jimbo. A Veterans Memorial is planned for The Oaks, funded by grants and donations. A long-term tree planting program is proposed to replace aging trees on Main Street and other areas. Additionally, a sidewalk project on Stevens is expected to finish by year-end, followed by work on Jackson Land.

Friendship Park Revitalization: Grant Application and Funding Match Approved

The council discussed the Friendship Park Revitalization Project Phase 2, approving a resolution to submit a grant application to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Restoration Fund (GCRF). The project aims to revitalize Friendship Park. The grant application, which opened June 1st and closes at the end of July, is expected to be awarded in 2027. The council also approved a resolution committing the city to a 20% match of the grant funds. The total grant amount is estimated at $1.6 million, with the match potentially around $320,000. The potential for significant annual savings ($35-40,000) from LED lighting upgrades within the project was also highlighted, alongside the possibility of adding two turf fields and parking.