The 2025 legislative session is underway, and state Capitol leaders are preparing to tackle major issues affecting Mississippians. From tax reforms to infrastructure improvements, the decisions made under the dome will have lasting impacts on communities across the state.
2024 marked the return of oyster season on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the first time in six years. For now, the Mississippi Sound is starting to rebound, and local oystermen are savoring the success of the 2024 season. But, as Parkinson and others know, the future remains uncertain.
The Bonnet Carré Spillway is a critical component of the Mississippi River's flood control system that is designed to protect communities, particularly New Orleans, from devastating floods.
Long Beach
Long Beach Mayor George Bass said that, while the city is still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, it is also looking toward future growth.
“We’ve had a growth in small...
Wiggins
Wiggins Mayor Darrell Berry said the city has seen substantial growth in recent years, with increasing demand for improved infrastructure.
“I think over the last three or four years, we’ve...
Lucedale
Lucedale Mayor Doug Lee said the city is seeking $1.2 million from the state to fund key projects, including road expansions and new sports facilities.
The city and George County have already...
Leakesville
Leakesville Mayor David West said the city’s top priority for the 2025 legislative session is securing $1.6 million to improve basic infrastructure, including roads and drainage. Of that,...
Hattiesburg
Hattiesburg Mayor Toby Barker is focused on several legislative priorities for the 2025 session, including efforts to extend leases on 16th Section land along Broadway Drive and West Pine...
Sumrall
Sumrall Mayor Joel Lofton said maintaining the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) of Mississippi is a top priority for the 2025 legislative session.
“As a small town, this (PERS)...
Knight’s top priority for the 2025 legislative session is securing state funding for economic development projects and creating a tax structure that can sustain the city’s infrastructure and services.
Picayune
Picayune Mayor Jim Luke, a former police chief, said he hopes public safety will be a major focus for state legislators during the 2025 session.
“I’ve worked with public safety most of my...
