What you need to know: Jackson City Council Meeting 3/24/26

The Jackson City Council met March 23rd for its regular session. For residents unable to attend, this recap highlights key agenda items and discussions with potential impact on neighborhoods across Jackson.

By the Numbers

• $2.9 million previously awarded to the Jackson Resource Center for a proposed tiny house village development was rescinded by the council

• $420,000 in state funding secured for Union Station improvements

• 15,000 allocated to support emergency shelter operations during severe weather

• $12,000 approved from Thalia Mara Hall, Josh Halbert Gardens, and City Hall

• Three major grant applications approved, totaling more than $4 million in potential funding

• Nearly 20 fire stations are scheduled for duct cleaning

• Six fire stations set to receive HVAC system upgrades

Union Station Funding Secured

The Council voted unanimously to authorize Mayor John Horhn and the City of Jackson to enter into an agreement with the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration to secure $420,000 in previously allocated state funding. These funds will support renovations and upgrades to Union Station and serve as matching funds for a larger project. Jackson Redevelopment Authority (JRA) is managing funds and the project.

Support for Emergency Sheltering

The Council approved $15,000 in funding to the Stewpot nonprofit organization to support emergency shelters during severe weather. This funding contributes to life-saving services for residents during critical conditions. There was also discussion around the long-term need for a certified, city-operated shelter to expand access to additional resources. 

While there is a modest win for the Stewpot, the Council also rescinded $2.9 million previously awarded to the Jackson Resource Center for a proposed tiny house village development. The funding originated from federal pandemic relief dollars and had been approved more than two years ago.

The rescission follows concerns raised about changes to the project's scope, which the council believes is no longer aligned with the original funding requirements. The measure passed unanimously and swiftly without discussion.

Ward 5 Council Member Vernon Hartley indicated that “the funds will be redirected toward broader homelessness prevention efforts.” This is likely to include rental support and coordinated services aimed at stabilizing residents before they lose housing.

Zoo Operations Software Renewal

A routine renewal of software used by the Jackson Zoo for animal records and collection management was approved. This system supports daily operations and animal care tracking. There was additional conversation about the zoo and the need for surrounding neighborhoods  in West Jackson, like Georgetown Elraine (Medgar Evers Neighborhood Historic District), Virden Addition, the City of Jackson and the State of Mississippi to see it as a priority destination of our youth and families. 

Chief Administrative Officer, Pieter Teeuwissen, said:

“The Zoo is open. I encourage folks to come and visit. It is a quiet and peaceful place to visit. There are 70 species and approximately 120 animals. I can assure you that many of those animals would love to have some company and would love to have some kids running around. We are in the process of repairing the splash pad. We should have that ready by the end of school.”

Adult tickets are $5.00 and children’s tickets are $2.00. The Zoo is currently open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Grant Applications to Support City Needs

The Council approved applications for several major grants, including funding for lead hazard reduction (US Department of Housing - no amount mentioned), public transportation support ($480,000.00 from the Mississippi Department of Transportation) and cybersecurity improvements ($1,394,226.34 from the Mississippi Office of Homeland Security). These opportunities reflect continued reliance on state and federal partnerships to advance city priorities and supplement limited local funding. The work of the city’s grants division was also highlighted as a key driver in securing these opportunities. 

During the discussion portion of the city council meeting, Ms. Sandra Bell, who is leading the grants team for the City of Jackson said:  

“We have started a process now, a checklist. It’s a 7-point checklist. Once they do that, we know that they are applying, then we can let the city council know in a timely manner, so we don’t have emergency issues. I think we have a good system now that is running and is in place.”

Historic Designation Efforts for Thalia Mara Hall

The Council approved a contract with the Mississippi Heritage Trust to pursue National Register of Historic Places designation for Thalia Mara Hall. This designation includes an amended designation for Josh Halbert Gardens and City Hall. The expectation is that the city could increase tourism to cover the $12,000.00 cost for renovations. A larger goal of this effort is to expand access to additional preservation funding for other historical locations around the city.

Emergency Technology Repairs Approved

The Council approved retroactive funding for emergency repairs following a system failure that temporarily disrupted access to critical police department data. The situation underscores the importance of continued investment in technology infrastructure.

Fire Station Improvements Underway

Significant investments and six orders were unanimously approved by the Council to improve conditions at fire stations across the city, including duct cleaning at multiple locations and HVAC system replacements. These upgrades address long-standing concerns about facility conditions and support the health and well-being of fire personnel and will be handled by Pure Air Consultants, Inc. 

Progress on Development Agreements

After an initial failed vote, the Council approved one item related to existing tax increment financing (TIF) agreements. These agreements are tied to the completed Helm Place development project and reflect the city’s responsibility to follow through on prior commitments given the now increased value to properties and projects. There were a few additional items regarding this that were pushed to executive session, but the main concern for the city to reimburse the developers for work already completed passed by a 4-3 vote by the council. 

Before You Go, You Should Know

Mayor John Horhn recognized the Jackson Social Workers Association for its service to the community with an official proclamation declaring March to be National Social Workers’ month in Jackson, Mississippi. 

Cindi Henry, president of the organization, expressed pride in the recognition and the continued work of social workers across Jackson, saying: 

“As Mayor Horhn said, this is a hard job, being a social worker. It has to be a calling. You have to have a calling and passion to work with our children and our families. We ask for our continued support to do the work.”

During Public Announcements, Mr. Brad Franklin spoke about how everyday citizens are coming together to help raise money for elderly in Jackson who are experiencing high water bills. Under the banner of Operation Zero Out, Mr. Franklin called for everyone to help make a difference by donating to the cause at www.zeffy.com. They have a goal to raise $50,000. The Council voted to adopt a resolution thanking Operation Zero Out. 

Updates were also shared on upcoming spring events designed to bring residents together and activate downtown spaces in the weeks ahead, including Hal & Mal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade on March 28th and the MayFair Committee Clean Up planned for April 25th. 

Next Meeting

The next Jackson City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, watch meetings on the new city website when possible and continue sharing neighborhood concerns with city leaders.