Peter C. Abide

The committee reviewed the status of tree removals, confirming that no healthy protected trees were affected, and discussed the ongoing search for a city arborist. Agenda items included an update on the Chick-fil-A project timeline and the processing of Majestic Tree applications. Committee members provided reports on Development Review Committee (DRC) attendance and recent communications regarding the restoration of the Edgewater Park live oak. The committee also coordinated planning for upcoming community events, including an Arbor Day tree giveaway and a Tidelands Heritage Trust tree giveaway.

The meeting focused on the committee's purpose to promote the preservation and replenishment of historic and protected trees. Discussion topics included an arborist report on tree maintenance and removal, status updates on the search for a City Arborist, and the coordination of the Arbor Day tree giveaway. Reports were provided on Development Review Committee attendance, and updates were shared regarding the City of Biloxi Majestic Tree Program, including recent applications and approved sites. Additionally, communication with local organizations and property owners concerning city-owned trees and arborist services was reviewed.

The meeting commenced with opening remarks, a prayer by a state championship soccer player, and the Pledge of Allegiance. Key actions included approving the agenda as amended, which incorporated a resolution for entering into a temporary birth rental agreement with American Cruise Lines. The Mayor's report featured proclamations recognizing the achievements of the St. Patrick Catholic High School women's and men's soccer teams as 2026 State Champions, and a request to spread the expenses of the city tribal expense credit card to the minutes. A significant discussion involved the planned launch of an Inmate Litter Program on March 9, 2026, to utilize non-violent offenders for public service work, overseen by Parks and Recreation, Public Works, and Police Departments, with the goal of freeing up city employees for grass cutting. Council members also discussed concerns over the loss of a FEMA appeal for $111 million and the approaching deadlines for community project funding grants. Further discussion addressed the decision to reduce the frequency of the city newsletter, the B News, from monthly to quarterly due to budget constraints, despite its positive content distribution to all city households.

The meeting began with the suspension of rules to adopt the agenda as amended. Agenda revisions included removing items related to municipal facilities and a facility rental agreement, and substituting a resolution regarding an agreement with the Mississippi Department of Employment Security. The consent agenda was also amended regarding a lease purchase agreement from Cadence Equipment. Key discussions covered the success of the recent Mardi Gras season, with thanks extended for support. A council member introduced information regarding Placer AI for demographic analysis related to city events, mentioning a demonstration based on a previous Christmas event. Discussions continued regarding park improvements, specifically the need for additional park benches at U Hill Park and plans for fabricating metal benches for sports complex dugouts. The potential conversion of a softball field area into a dog park was also suggested. Building permit updates indicated eight permits issued for new townhomes on Maple Street. Issues regarding sidewalk repair on Howard Avenue after utility pole movement were addressed. Concerns were raised about grass cutting schedules, enforcement procedures for code violations, and the regulation of e-bikes operating at high speeds without proper safety equipment. Furthermore, protocols for food trucks operating near brick-and-mortar restaurants, including required permitting, fire inspections, and distance requirements (250 feet minimum from established restaurants), were reviewed. A request was made for a traffic study concerning a new 219-home development on Pop's Ferry Road.

The meeting commenced with a pledge and prayer, followed by the approval of the agenda as amended, which included substituting items to add planning commission minutes. The Mayor's report highlighted the repair and reopening of the Howard Creek Bridge (with weight limitations), the installation of a traffic mirror at AA and Irish Hill, and the ongoing renovation of the comfort station at Room Magnolia and Highway 90. The Mayor also introduced Mike Russo as the new CTA director and noted a request to spread Buxy Travel Expense card expenses to the minutes. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing winners of the 27th annual shoebox float contest, including sponsor acknowledgments and details on the cash awards and parade participation. Council reports included a motion to charge the planning commission with considering the removal of short-term rentals from RM20 and RM30 zones, a suggestion to label City of Buxy beautification crew trailers, and an update on the B-Alert system delay. The Chairperson of the Beautification Commission provided an update on efforts, including public education, considering affiliation with Keep America Beautiful, restoring the Moonwalk mural at the Fred Hayes statue, and working toward establishing a Buxy Beautification Fund.