Laurel public meetings in 2021

City Council

The City Council will consider several items, including public hearings for properties identified as potential health or safety menaces due to uncleanliness or dilapidation. The agenda also includes proposals for a drainage study contract and lighting agreements for the I-59 interchange.

• Ordinance to rezone 228 West 1st Street from R-3 to C-2 for a convenience store
• Contract with Neel-Schaffer for an engineering drainage study on Ridgewood Drive and Pinehaven Drive
• Agreement between MDOT, Mississippi Power Company, and the City regarding I-59 interchange lighting
• Public hearings for properties at 841 Masonite Drive, 1912 N 3rd Ave, and 111 Bay St
• One-year special exception for a mobile home at 2301 N Meridian Ave

The Laurel City Council approved a resolution to levy an additional sales tax on hotel, motel, and short-term rental bills to promote tourism. They also ratified an emergency order and authorized a FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant application, and approved a resolution for bond issuance costs. The council set a public hearing for January 18, 2022, on multiple properties for cleanliness or demolition, and conducted hearings on several properties, declaring them menaces to public health. A special exception for a mobile home at 2301 N Meridian Ave failed due to lack of a motion.

• Approved additional hotel/motel/short-term rental sales tax for tourism (7-0)
• Ratified emergency order for FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant application (6-0, Ellis absent)
• Authorized FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant application (6-0, Ellis absent)
• Approved bond issuance cost requisition for $1,944,000 GO Refunding Bonds (6-0, Ellis absent)
• Set public hearing for Jan 18, 2022 on 8 properties for uncleanliness (6-0, Ellis absent)
• Conducted hearings on 10 properties, declaring them menaces to public health (6-0 each, Ellis absent)
• Failed special exception for mobile home at 2301 N Meridian Ave (no motion)
• Approved FY 2022 annual and semi-annual bids (6-0, Ellis absent)

City Council

The council will consider a $178,428 purchase of new police vehicles and setting a future hearing date for several properties regarding cleanliness. They will also review requests for engineering and administrative services related to CDBG grants. The agenda includes discussions on easement transfers and employee holiday schedules.

• Purchase of three Dodge Chargers and three RAM 1500 trucks for $178,428.00
• Setting a January 4, 2022, hearing date for multiple properties regarding cleanliness
• Public hearings on December 7, 2021, for properties at 824 S 6th Ave, 857 N 7th Ave, and 411 E 4th St
• Request for proposals for CDBG engineering and administrative services for FY2022
• Transfer of the Wayne Farms lift station to Amick Farms

The Laurel City Council approved a conditional use permit for Bennett York to operate a mini-warehouse at 23 Mason St, and authorized the mayor to rescind the Tyler Technologies Executime software contract. The council also set a public hearing for January 4, 2022, on numerous overgrown properties, and approved several resolutions and orders, including police vehicle purchases and a FEMA grant application.

• Approved conditional use for mini-warehouse at 23 Mason St (6-0)
• Authorized rescinding Tyler Technologies Executime contract (6-0)
• Set public hearing for Jan 4, 2022 on overgrown properties (6-0)
• Approved purchase of 3 Dodge Chargers and 3 RAM trucks for police ($178,428) (6-0)
• Authorized FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant application (6-0)
• Approved Dec 23 and Dec 31 as paid holidays for city employees (6-0)
• Approved accepting donation from Sylvia Kay Atwood and Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Troyka (6-0)
• Approved claims docket (6-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council is considering the issuance of General Obligation and Water and Sewer Refunding Bonds, each not to exceed $2,000,000. The agenda also includes a contract for redistricting based on 2020 Census Data and an ordinance to close parts of Avenue A and Pendorff Road. Additionally, the council will address property cleanliness issues through scheduled public hearings.

• Issuance of up to $2,000,000 in General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2021A
• Issuance of up to $2,000,000 in Water and Sewer Refunding Bonds, Series 2021B
• Redistricting contract with Slaughter & Associates based on 2020 Census Data
• Ordinance for the closure of portions of Avenue A and Pendorff Road
• Lot cleaning assessments for various properties across multiple wards

The Laurel City Council approved two $2,000,000 general obligation bond refunding resolutions (Series 2021A and 2021B) to refinance outstanding city debt, and entered into a professional services contract with Slaughter & Associates for redistricting based on 2020 Census data. The council also set a December 21, 2021 public hearing on 20 properties cited for dilapidated structures, unsecured structures, or overgrown lots, and approved lot cleaning assessments on 10 properties. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved $2M GO Refunding Bonds Series 2021A (7-0)
• Approved $2M taxable GO Water and Sewer Refunding Bonds Series 2021B (7-0)
• Approved redistricting contract with Slaughter & Associates (7-0)
• Set Dec 21, 2021 public hearing on 20 uncleanliness properties (7-0)
• Approved lot cleaning assessments on 10 properties (7-0)
• Approved FY2022 budget amendments (7-0)
• Approved property insurance bid for 2021-2022 (7-0)
• Approved travel for officials to MML conference (7-0)

City Council

The council will consider authorizing professionals for bond issuance up to $4,000,000 to refinance existing city debt. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding properties identified as potential public health menaces and several business special exceptions. Additionally, the council will review landfill fee amendments and advertising bids for a new heavy-duty trash loader.

• Authorization of professionals for up to $4,000,000 in refinancing bonds
• Public hearings regarding properties identified as potential public health menaces
• A $4,780.00 payment from Dixie Youth Baseball ticket sales to a scholarship fund
• One-year special exception for a tire repair shop at 3371 Ellisville Blvd
• Advertising bids for a new 2022 heavy duty trash loader

The Laurel City Council approved a resolution authorizing up to $4,000,000 in refunding bonds to refinance outstanding water/sewer and general obligation bonds. It also approved a second reading of an ordinance amending landfill fees (Enactment No. 1717-2021), granted one-year special exceptions for a tire shop/car dealership, a hair salon, and a towing service, and set a December 7 public hearing on overgrown properties. All votes were 5-0 with two council members absent.

• Approved $4M refunding bond resolution (5-0)
• Approved landfill fee ordinance on second reading (5-0)
• Granted one-year special exception for tire shop/car dealership at 3371 Ellisville Blvd (5-0)
• Renewed special exception for hair salon at 1104 W 1st St (5-0)
• Renewed special exception for towing service at 510 Cross St (5-0)
• Set Dec 7 public hearing on overgrown properties (5-0)
• Approved lot cleaning assessments for 11 properties (5-0)
• Approved claims docket (5-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council is reviewing an ordinance to amend Chapter 22 Landfill Fees. The meeting includes several public hearings regarding properties in states of uncleanliness or dilapidation. Additionally, the council will consider contract closeouts and travel authorizations.

• Ordinance amending Chapter 22 Landfill Fees
• Contract closeout for Iris Drive Bridge replacement project
• Public hearings regarding property cleanliness and safety
• Bid acceptance from Larry J Sumrall Contractors for Oak Park Alumni Building Project
• $3,500 State Farm Safety Grant application for fire prevention

The Laurel City Council approved multiple property maintenance hearings, authorized closing out the Iris Drive Bridge contract, and accepted bids for the Oak Park Alumni Building and surplus property. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved order setting Nov 16, 2021 public hearings for 4 overgrown properties (7-0)
• Adopted resolutions for 12 property cleanup hearings on Oct 19, 2021 (7-0 each)
• Authorized closeout of Allen Construction contract for Iris Drive Bridge (7-0)
• Ratified emergency order for police/fire travel to Grand Isle, LA for disaster relief (7-0)
• Accepted Larry J Sumrall Contractors bid for Oak Park Alumni Building (7-0)
• Approved order to advertise surplus property for bid (7-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending landfill fees (7-0)
• Approved 13 lot cleaning assessments totaling $3,000+ (7-0)

City Council

The City Council is conducting public hearings on several properties identified as dilapidated or unclean. The agenda also includes decisions regarding utility and roadway improvements and the closeout of the Iris Drive Bridge replacement project. Additionally, the council will consider various grants and equipment leases.

• Awarding construction for the Kimberly and Katherine Drive Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• Second reading of an ordinance to rezone 511 N Cook Ave from C-2 to C-3
• Approving an equipment lease-purchase agreement with BancorpSouth Equipment Finance
• Accepting a $2,500 Walmart Community Grant for the Laurel Fire Department

The Laurel City Council approved several resolutions and orders, including setting a public hearing for November 2, 2021 on overgrown properties, conducting hearings on dilapidated or unclean properties, and authorizing an equipment lease-purchase agreement for a fire truck. The council also approved the second reading of a zoning change for 511 N Cook Ave, accepted grants for the police and fire departments, and approved various administrative items. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved order to set public hearing for Nov 2, 2021 on overgrown properties (7-0)
• Approved resolutions to conduct hearings on dilapidated/unclean properties (7-0)
• Approved Holt & Associates audit for FY ending Sept 30, 2021 (7-0)
• Authorized equipment lease-purchase agreement with BancorpSouth for fire truck (7-0)
• Approved second reading of zoning change for 511 N Cook Ave to C-3 (7-0)
• Accepted Walmart Community Grant of $2,500 and two grills for fire department (7-0)
• Accepted 154 Alcohol Grant and 402 Police Traffic Services Grant for FY 2022 (7-0)
• Approved lot cleaning assessments for 12 properties (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider approving annual budgeted appropriations and a change order for the South 16th Avenue project. Additionally, the council will conduct public hearings regarding several properties deemed a menace to public health and safety.

• Resolution approving annual budgeted appropriations
• Change Order No. 1 for South 16th Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• Renewal of lease agreements with Howard Industries
• Lease agreement with Laurel Airport Authority for Suez equipment yard relocation
• Public hearings regarding various dilapidated or overgrown properties

The City Council voted unanimously to set an October 19, 2021 public hearing on 17 properties cited for dilapidation or overgrowth, and conducted hearings on 10 individual properties to determine if they menace public health and safety. The council also approved several routine items, including lease renewals, a change order for a road project, travel approvals, and the annual budget appropriations.

• Adopted order setting Oct. 19, 2021 public hearing on 17 properties (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 746 E Elmo St (5-0, 2 absent)
• Adopted resolutions for public hearings on 9 other properties (6-0 each)
• Approved renewal of landlord lease agreements with Howard Industries (6-0)
• Approved lease with Laurel Airport Authority for Suez workshop relocation (6-0)
• Authorized Change Order No. 1 for South 16th Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements (6-0)
• Approved travel for Narcotics Agent Rodrigus Carr to Tunica, MS (6-0)
• Approved annual budget appropriations resolution (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider adopting the Fiscal Year 2022 budget and tax mileage. The agenda includes public hearings regarding property cleanliness and health safety concerns. Other items include police equipment purchases and zoning amendments.

• Adoption of the FY 2022 budget and tax mileage
• Purchase of two motorcycles for the Police Department totaling $61,008.16
• Zoning change for 507 & 511 N Cook Ave from C-2 to C-3
• Construction award for the 2021 NRCS Lagoon Project
• Lease agreement with Laurel School District for Daphne Park Tennis Courts

The Laurel City Council approved the FY2022 budget and tax levy, confirmed Tyrome Russell as Public Works Director, and adopted numerous resolutions and orders including a lease agreement for Daphne Park tennis courts, a change order for the Sportsplex expansion, and a resolution to refinance a fire truck lease. A special exception for a café at 609 W Jackson St failed due to lack of a second. All votes were unanimous except for the budget and police motorcycle purchases, where Councilperson Andrea Ellis recused herself.

• Approved FY2022 budget (6-0, Ellis recused)
• Approved FY2022 tax levy (7-0)
• Confirmed Tyrome Russell as Public Works Director (7-0)
• Approved lease agreement with Laurel School District for Daphne Park tennis courts (7-0)
• Approved Change Order No. 1 for Sportsplex Expansion Project - Contract II (7-0)
• Approved resolution to refinance fire truck lease with BanCorp South (7-0)
• Approved purchase of 2 police motorcycles for $61,008.16 (6-0, Ellis recused)
• Failed special exception for café at 609 W Jackson St (no second)

City Council

The council will consider several resolutions regarding property maintenance and public health nuisances. They are also reviewing contracts for employee health insurance and computer equipment leasing.

• Contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of MS for city employee health insurance
• Lease agreement with Howard Technology Solution for computer equipment
• Second reading of a rezoning ordinance for 460 Hwy 15 South
• First reading of a model Floodplain Ordinance
• Public hearings regarding dilapidated and overgrown properties

The Laurel City Council voted unanimously to set a public hearing for September 21, 2021, to determine whether 13 listed properties are a menace to public health and safety due to dilapidation or overgrowth. The council also conducted public hearings on 10 individual properties and adopted resolutions to determine if each is a menace, all passing 7-0. Additionally, the council approved several administrative items, including a lease for computer equipment, health insurance contracts, a school board appointment, a floodplain ordinance on first reading, a zoning change on second reading, and tax exemptions for Wayne Farms and Laurel Machine Foundry.

• Set Sept. 21, 2021 public hearing on 13 dilapidated/overgrown properties (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 1026 N 4th Ave (Judith Hughes) (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 1008 Front St (Ira Pigford) (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 608 E 10th St (Clara Moss) (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 727 Haddon St (Mary Fisher Est) (7-0)
• Approved lease with Howard Technology Solution for computer equipment (7-0)
• Approved health insurance contracts with Blue Cross Blue Shield of MS, Unity, and Insurance Services of Laurel (6-0, Ellis recused)
• Approved second reading of zoning change for 460 Hwy 15 South (Flash Market LLC) (7-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council is reviewing a zoning change for property on Highway 15 South and an application for bridge repair funds. The council will also set dates for public hearings regarding the FY 2022 budget and several properties identified as unclean.

• Zoning change for Flash Market LLC at 460 Hwy 15 South
• MDOT grant application for Arco Lane Bridge Replacement Project
• Public hearing date set for FY 2022 Budget on August 30, 2021
• Appointment of Matt Sherman as Public Defender
• Travel approval for Melicia Shaw Cooper ($3,234.97)

The Laurel City Council approved a resolution confirming Matt Sherman as Public Defender for the Laurel Municipal Court. The council also set public hearings for September 7, 2021 on overgrown properties and for August 30, 2021 on the FY 2022 budget. Several agenda items were deleted, including resolutions for public hearings on specific properties.

• Confirmed Matt Sherman as Public Defender for Laurel Municipal Court (5-0)
• Set public hearing for Sept 7, 2021 on overgrown properties (5-0)
• Set public hearing for FY 2022 Budget on Aug 30, 2021 (5-0)
• Adopted order authorizing Amendment No. 1 to engineering contract with Kris Riemann & Associates (5-0)
• Authorized application to MDOT ERBRF for Arco Lane Bridge Replacement (5-0)
• Set minimum purchase price for city-owned surplus real property (5-0)
• Appointed Clarence Larkin as Ward 4 representative on City Planning Commission (5-0)
• Approved first reading of zoning change for Flash Market LLC property from A-1 to C-2 (5-0)

City Council

The council will hold public hearings to determine if several properties are a menace to public health and safety. The agenda also includes the re-appointment of various city officials, including the police and fire chiefs. Additionally, the council will consider contracts for pedestrian improvements and beverage services.

• Purchase of three Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles for $81,378.00
• Public hearings regarding property cleanliness at multiple locations
• Professional services agreement for Oak Park High School Alumni Building renovation
• Agreement with Coca Cola Bottling Company for beverage services
• Lot cleaning assessments for various properties in the city

The Laurel City Council unanimously approved all agenda items, including the purchase of three Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles for the Police Department at a cost of $81,378.00, and re-appointed several officials and board members. The council also set a public hearing for August 17, 2021, on 13 properties for potential cleaning, and approved various agreements and orders. Two agenda items were deleted during the meeting, including a public hearing for properties on Chantilly Street and Masonite Drive, and the re-appointment of John Piazza as Public Defender.

• Approved purchase of 3 Dodge Charger Pursuit vehicles for police ($81,378) (7-0)
• Set public hearing for Aug 17, 2021 on 13 properties for cleaning (7-0)
• Approved service agreement for credit card machines for Recreation Dept (7-0)
• Authorized beverage agreement with Coca Cola Bottling Company (7-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Architect Michael McKinnon for Oak Park High School Alumni Building renovation (7-0)
• Authorized agreement with Neel-Schaffer for Spec Wilson Boulevard Pedestrian Improvements (7-0)
• Approved application for Walmart Community grant for thermal imaging camera and fire safety DVDs (7-0)
• Re-appointed Tommy Cox as Police Chief, Elvin Ulmer as Parks/Recreation Director, Leo Brown as Fire Chief, Mary Ann Hess as City Clerk/Finance Director, and others (7-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council will elect a new President and Vice President and approve minutes from June 22, 2021. The council is considering setting an August 3, 2021, date for hearings on numerous overgrown properties. Additionally, several public hearings are scheduled to address property cleanliness and dilapidated states.

• Election of Council President and Vice President
• Setting August 3, 2021, for public hearings on various overgrown properties
• Public hearing for 1819 Airport Dr regarding uncleanliness
• Public hearing for 315 W 17th St regarding dilapidated state
• Public hearing for 2012 Airport Dr regarding uncleanliness

The Laurel City Council unanimously approved an order to award the contract for privatization of Public Works services, with H2O Innovation as the recommended bidder. The council also approved the purchase of CityWorks software, authorized advertising for computer equipment lease bids, and authorized the mayor to sign documents related to American Rescue Plan Funds. Numerous resolutions were adopted to conduct public hearings on properties deemed unclean or dilapidated, with several items deleted from the agenda and one hearing deferred.

• Awarded Public Works privatization contract to H2O Innovation (7-0)
• Approved CityWorks software purchase and maintenance agreement (7-0)
• Authorized advertising for computer equipment lease bids (7-0)
• Authorized mayor to sign American Rescue Plan Funds documents (7-0)
• Adopted order setting Aug 3, 2021 public hearing for 31 overgrown properties (7-0)
• Adopted resolutions to conduct hearings on ~30 properties for uncleanliness/dilapidation (7-0 each)
• Approved second reading of ordinance amending City Utility Tax (7-0)
• Granted special exceptions for day care at 703 N 11th Ave and braiding salon at 419 W Jackson St (7-0)

City Council

The council will hold public hearings regarding several properties identified as unclean or dilapidated. Members will also consider a $60,013.81 grant application for the police department and an ordinance amending the City Utility Tax. Additionally, officials will review budget amendments and project close-outs.

• Police Department grant application up to $60,013.81
• Purchase of 1,620 rings for Dixie Youth World Series for $11,745.00
• Ordinance amending the City Utility Tax
• Public hearings regarding property cleanliness and safety
• Lot cleaning assessments between $155.00 and $210.00

The Laurel City Council approved a series of resolutions to conduct public hearings on properties deemed a menace to public health and safety, including several with extensions. They also approved closing out two overlay projects, a GIS services agreement, purchasing Dixie Youth World Series rings, reappointing an economic development board member, and a police grant application. The council approved the first reading of a utility tax ordinance amendment and various other administrative items.

• Approved setting a public hearing for July 20, 2021, on 10 overgrown properties.
• Adopted resolutions to conduct hearings on 16 properties, with extensions for 828 S 16th Ave (30 days) and 2314 N 5th Ave (60 days).
• Approved closing out the 2020 Overlay Project and the 5th Avenue Overlay and Drainage Improvements Project.
• Authorized a Letter Agreement for Public Works GIS and City Works Implementation.
• Approved purchasing 1,620 Dixie Youth World Series rings from Success Brands for $11,745.00.
• Reappointed Whitney Pickering to the Economic Development Authority of Jones County Board.
• Approved the Laurel Police Department's application for the OAIV Grant up to $60,013.81.
• Approved the first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 12, Article VIII (City Utility Tax).

City Council

The City Council is considering resolutions for public hearings regarding properties deemed a menace to public health due to uncleanliness or overgrowth. The agenda also includes reviewing grant amendments for Daphne Park tennis facilities and approving city bids.

• Grant amendment for Daphne Park tennis facility improvements
• Zoning variance request regarding setback regulations for James Wray Bush
• Approval of bids for annual fire safety inspections through 2025
• Lot cleaning assessment of $1,113.29 for property on West Drive
• Tax exemption application for Dunn Roadbuilders, LLC

The City Council voted 6-0 to set a July 6, 2021 public hearing on a long list of properties cited for dilapidated structures or overgrown lots, and conducted hearings on several individual properties, adopting resolutions for cleanup determinations. The council also approved a zoning variance, a grant amendment for tennis court improvements, and various administrative orders and resolutions.

• Adopted order setting July 6, 2021 public hearing on 100+ unclean properties (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 703 N 11th Ave (Kinnon Speights) with 30-day extension (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on lot SW of 703 N 11th Ave (Tommy Cotten) (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 524 N 8th Ave (Armando Zuniga) (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 544 N 7th Ave (Thomas Burger Jr) (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 612 Mississippi Ave (Richard Fulford Est) (6-0)
• Approved zoning variance for James Wray Bush (6-0)
• Approved amended project agreement for Daphne Park tennis facility grant (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution regarding the Beacon Homes Project. This item involves authorizing a corrective quitclaim deed to Laurel Housing Authority Enterprise Development, Inc.

• Resolution authorizing a corrective quitclaim deed related to the Beacon Homes Project

The City Council held a special call meeting and approved a resolution authorizing a corrective quitclaim deed to Laurel Housing Authority Enterprise Development, Inc. for the Beacon Homes Project. The motion passed 4-0 with three members absent. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as printed (4-0)
• Adopted resolution for corrective quitclaim deed to LHA Enterprise Development, Inc. for Beacon Homes Project (4-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council is reviewing several resolutions to hold public hearings regarding properties that may pose a threat to public health and safety due to uncleanliness or dilapidation. The council will also consider various community donations and infrastructure projects, including upgrades to A.W. Watson Baseball Field.

• Public hearings for multiple properties regarding overgrown or dilapidated conditions
• $4,000 donation from Masonite for trees at Elvin Ulmer Eightplex
• Upgrades to fencing and the press box at A.W. Watson Baseball Field
• Acceptance of donations for the Dixie Youth World Series
• Ordinance to close an alley in the Laurel Improvement Co Addition

The Laurel City Council unanimously approved an order scheduling a June 22, 2021 public hearing on dozens of properties cited for overgrown lots or dilapidated structures. It also conducted hearings on several specific properties, granting a six-month extension for one dilapidated building. All other agenda items, including donations, grants, appointments, and tax exemptions, were approved unanimously.

• Set June 22, 2021 public hearing on 40+ overgrown/dilapidated properties (7-0)
• Conducted hearing on 3131 Cedar Lane (Julie Finnegan) (7-0)
• Conducted hearing on 2704 Hwy 15 N (Goodyear Tire) (7-0)
• Conducted hearing on 2007 Ellisville Blvd (Mickey Jefferson) with 6-month extension (7-0)
• Adopted resolution establishing Hillcrest Drive Improvement Project (7-0)
• Accepted $4,000 Masonite donation for 128 trees at Elvin Ulmer Eightplex (7-0)
• Approved ad valorem tax exemptions for Howard Industries and Laurel Machine & Foundry (7-0)
• Approved FY2021 budget amendments (7-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council will discuss several infrastructure and service items, including road improvements and the potential privatization of public works. The agenda also includes grant applications for housing rehabilitation and transportation. Additionally, the council will review property maintenance hearings and tax exemption renewals.

• Bids for Kimberly and Katherine Drive Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• Privatization of City public works services via RFQ and pricing proposals
• Asphalt overlay and basketball equipment at K.C. Park
• Home Rehabilitation Grant application with Laurel Housing Authority
• Tax exemption renewals for Freeport Warehouse properties

The Laurel City Council approved multiple resolutions and orders, including authorizing bids for the Kimberly and Katherine Drive utility and roadway improvements, a RAISE grant application, a Mississippi Arts Commission grant contract, and tax exemptions for Mid-South Industries and Masonite Corporation. A donation for the 1st Annual Juneteenth Festival failed due to lack of a second. The council also set a public hearing for June 9, 2021, and moved the June 8 meeting to June 9.

• Approved resolution to advertise bids for Kimberly and Katherine Drive utility and roadway improvements (6-0)
• Approved resolution for RAISE grant application letter agreement (6-0)
• Approved order authorizing Mississippi Arts Commission grant contract (6-0)
• Approved order for K.C. Park parking lot and basketball court overlay (6-0)
• Approved ordinance abandoning alley in Home Subdivision & Boulevard Addition, Enactment No. 1712-2021 (6-0)
• Approved order to advertise RFQ for privatization of public works services (6-0)
• Approved tax exemption renewals for Mid-South Industries and Masonite Corporation (6-0 each)
• Juneteenth Festival donation order failed due to lack of second motion

City Council

The Council will consider awarding construction for the Martin Luther King Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project and a memorandum of understanding for the Beacon Homes project. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding property maintenance and potential changes to nonresidential garbage collection fees.

• Awarding construction for the Martin Luther King Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• Memorandum of understanding for the Laurel Housing Authority’s Beacon Homes project
• Amending solid waste ordinances regarding nonresidential garbage collection fees
• Public hearings for several properties due to uncleanliness or dilapidation
• Renaming a portion of Victoria Avenue to Wayne Drive

The Laurel City Council approved a resolution authorizing the award of construction for the Martin Luther King Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project. The council also set a public hearing for May 18, 2021, on 20 properties cited for uncleanliness or dilapidation, and adopted resolutions to conduct hearings on four specific properties. A resolution for a hearing on a property in the Historic District was withdrawn for review by the Historic Commission.

• Approved resolution to award MLK Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements construction (5-0)
• Set public hearing for May 18, 2021 on 20 overgrown/dilapidated properties (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on Kale Farms LLC property at lot west of 311 W 24th St (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on Luvenia Brown property at 1114 N 1st Ave (5-0)
• Withdrew resolution for public hearing on Ronnie Brunson property at 1044 N 2nd Ave (Historic District)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on Donald Ray Brogan property at 1506 N 1st Ave (5-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on G J Tax Sale Properties LLC at 2239 N 2nd Ave (5-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance to abandon alley in Home Subdivision & Boulevard Addition (5-0)

City Council

The council will consider authorizing the privatization of City Public Works services and an agreement with Engineering Excellence. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding property cleanliness in Ward 4 and amendments to water and sewer rate ordinances. Additionally, the council will review audit findings concerning benefits paid to terminated employees.

• Authorization of Public Works privatization and engineering services agreement
• Public hearings regarding property cleanliness at 318 E 18th St and adjacent lots
• Re-application for Police Traffic Services and Impaired Driving grants of $63,750 each
• Amendments to water and sewer rate ordinances
• Bid award for a Tandem Axle Dump Truck to Burroughs Companies

City Council

The City Council is reviewing ordinances to amend rates for water, sewer, and garbage collection. The agenda also includes a proposed pay raise for certain city legal officials and the acceptance of property from the school district.

• Amendments to water, sewer, and garbage collection fee ordinances
• Pay raise for Municipal Court Judges, City Prosecutor, Public Defender, and City Attorney
• Payment to Alan Coleman Construction, LLC for Iris Drive Bridge replacement
• Acceptance of Oak Park Alumni Building and Grounds from the school district
• Public hearings regarding properties in states of uncleanliness or dilapidation

The Laurel City Council approved a pay raise for municipal judges, city prosecutor, public defender, and city attorney, adopted the 2018 International Codes, and accepted the Oak Park Alumni Building and Grounds from the school district. The council also approved several ordinances and orders, including water, sewer, and solid waste rate amendments, and set a public hearing for April 20 on multiple properties deemed a menace to public health.

• Approved pay raise for Municipal Court Judges, City Prosecutor, Public Defender, and City Attorney (6-0)
• Accepted Oak Park Alumni Building and Grounds from Laurel Municipal Separate School District (6-0)
• Adopted 2018 International Codes on second reading (6-0, Enactment No. 1705-2021)
• Approved water rate ordinance amendment (6-0, Enactment No. 1707-2021)
• Approved sewer rate ordinance amendment (6-0, Enactment No. 1708-2021)
• Approved solid waste fee ordinance amendment (6-0, Enactment No. 1709-2021)
• Set public hearing for April 20, 2021 on seven properties for uncleanliness/dilapidation (6-0)
• Authorized administration to accept CATF funding from MDEQ for 8-plex expansion (6-0)

City Council

The City Council is considering the sale of a $1,000,000 negotiable note and several ordinance amendments regarding water, sewer, and solid waste rates. The agenda also includes discussions on infrastructure projects for Wilson Boulevard and MLK Avenue.

• Sale of a $1,000,000 negotiable note (Series 2021)
• First reading of ordinances to amend water, sewer, and solid waste rates
• Initiation of the Wilson Boulevard Pedestrian Improvements Project
• Bidding for the Martin Luther King Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• Proposed 5% salary increase for the Mayor and City Council

The Laurel City Council approved the sale of a $1,000,000 negotiable note to First State Bank, ratified an emergency water main replacement, and advanced first readings of ordinances amending water, sewer, and solid waste rates. The council also approved a 5% salary increase for the Mayor and City Council positions, effective July 1, 2021, with one dissenting vote. All other agenda items, including public hearings for property cleanup and various project authorizations, were approved unanimously.

• Approved sale of $1M negotiable note to First State Bank (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending water rates (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending sewer rates (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending solid waste fees (6-0)
• Approved 5% salary increase for Mayor and City Council (5-1)
• Ratified emergency order for water main replacement at E 7th St & Herbert Ave (6-0)
• Set public hearing for April 6, 2021 on overgrown properties (6-0)
• Approved lot cleaning assessments for four properties (6-0)

City Council

The Laurel City Council is considering a 5% pay raise for full-time and part-time employees. The council will also consider authority to award construction for the Laurel Sportsplex Expansion Phase 2 and various budget amendments. Additionally, public hearings are proposed regarding property conditions at 830 S Magnolia St and 14 Carney Dr.

• 5% pay raise for full-time and part-time employees
• Construction award for Laurel Sportsplex Expansion Phase 2
• $16,000 reimbursement request from MS Forestry Commission for tree inventory
• Public hearing regarding property at 830 S Magnolia St
• Public hearing regarding property at 14 Carney Dr

The Laurel City Council approved a 5% pay raise for full-time and part-time employees, effective March 7, 2021. They also authorized the construction of the Laurel Sportsplex Expansion Phase 2 and approved a $16,000 tree inventory grant reimbursement. The meeting was rescheduled from February 16 to February 17 due to inclement weather.

• Approved 5% pay raise for full-time and part-time employees effective March 7, 2021 (6-0)
• Authorized construction of Laurel Sportsplex Expansion Phase 2 (6-0)
• Approved resolution to pay Planit GEO and request $16,000 reimbursement from MS Forestry Commission (6-0)
• Adopted order setting public hearing for March 16, 2021 on unclean properties (6-0)
• Adopted resolution for public hearing on 830 S Magnolia St property (6-0)
• Approved travel expenses for Clerk of Council to attend conference (6-0)
• Approved FY 2021 budget amendments (6-0)
• Approved claims docket (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution to issue negotiable notes not exceeding $1,000,000 to fund recreational facilities and street improvements. The agenda also includes public hearings regarding property cleanliness at specific addresses. Additionally, the council will review police overtime policy changes and grant applications.

• Resolution to issue up to $1,000,000 in negotiable notes for parks and streets
• Public hearings regarding property cleanliness at 2228 N 1st Ave and 907 S 7th Ave
• Application for a FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant
• Amendment to police department overtime pay policy
• Order to decrease the mileage reimbursement rate

The council approved a resolution to issue a negotiable note of up to $1,000,000 for recreational facilities, street improvements, and related costs, and approved hiring professionals for the note issuance. It also set a public hearing for March 2, 2021 on two properties cited for dilapidated or unsecured structures, and conducted hearings on two other properties. All votes were 5-0 with two members absent.

• Approved $1M negotiable note for recreation, streets, sidewalks (5-0)
• Approved employment of professionals for $1M note issuance (5-0)
• Set public hearing for March 2, 2021 on properties at 819 W 5th St and 1632 Lee St (5-0)
• Conducted public hearing on 2228 N 1st Ave property (5-0)
• Conducted public hearing on 907 S 7th Ave property (5-0)
• Approved CDBG payment request for Storage Tank Rehab Phase 1 (5-0)
• Appointed Tracy Robinson to school board (5-0)
• Approved FEMA Firefighters Assistance Grant application (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider ordinances to establish new council ward boundaries and polling places following recent city annexations. The agenda also includes awarding a roadway improvement project on South 16th Avenue and closing out the Daphne Park Tennis Court reconstruction.

• Ordinances establishing new council ward boundaries and polling places following annexations
• Awarding construction for the South 16th Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project
• A $5,000 Walmart grant for Laurel Fire Department training equipment
• Lot cleaning assessments for properties on S 17th Ave, Sandy T Gavin, and MLK Ave
• Setting a February 16 public hearing regarding unclean properties at 14 Carney Dr and 830 S Magnolia

The Laurel City Council unanimously approved second readings of ordinances amending ward boundaries and polling places to reflect voter redistricting following annexation. The council also approved several resolutions and orders, including awarding the South 16th Avenue utility and roadway project, closing out the Daphne Park tennis court project, and accepting a $5,000 Walmart grant for fire department training equipment.

• Approved ordinance amending ward boundaries (Enactment No. 1703-2021) (7-0)
• Approved ordinance designating polling places (Enactment No. 1704-2021) (7-0)
• Approved resolution to award South 16th Avenue Utility and Roadway Improvements Project (7-0)
• Approved resolution to close out Daphne Park Tennis Court Reconstruction Project (7-0)
• Approved order to advertise for bids for a tandem axle dump truck (7-0)
• Approved order appointing Susan Ladd as ex-officio representative to Planning Commission (7-0)
• Approved order accepting $5,000 Walmart grant for fire department training equipment (7-0)
• Approved lot cleaning assessments for three properties (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider a second reading of an ordinance to close an alley in Ingrams Third Addition. The council will also hold public hearings regarding whether certain properties are a menace to public health and safety.

• Ordinance to close an alley in Ingrams Third Addition, Blks D & E
• Public hearing for property at 16 Carney Dr
• Proposed February 2 hearing for properties at 2228 N 1st Ave and 907 S 7th Ave
• Approval of the claims docket