Shelly Phelps

The Board of Aldermen held a session to discuss and vote on a proposed lease agreement between the city and a developer regarding the OS 1515 parking garage. The discussion centered on concerns over the rightful ownership of the property, the validity of past grant agreements, and the necessity of meeting a looming deadline set by the State Auditor to avoid repayment of an $8 million grant. Despite remaining divisions among the members regarding ownership, the board ultimately approved the lease in a 4-2-3 vote.

The Compass 2046 plan serves as Waveland's long-range strategic framework to guide future growth and development. It encompasses shaping infrastructure, roads, flood protection, and quality of life projects. Key objectives include updating zoning ordinances to foster increased development, attracting new businesses and permanent or second home residents, particularly along Highway 90 and Coleman Avenue, and enhancing the waterfront with public amenities. The plan aims to transition the city into a new phase of growth, moving beyond post-Katrina recovery, while maintaining a family-oriented atmosphere.

The Ward 2 candidate forum featured four candidates for the upcoming special election who presented their platforms and priorities for the city. Key discussion topics included addressing municipal budget challenges without increasing taxes or water bills, improving city infrastructure, including drainage and water quality, to mitigate flooding, and strengthening community unity. Candidates also addressed economic development disparities across wards, public safety concerns, and the need for new financial priorities to fund essential projects.

The meeting focuses on addressing the city's fire safety rating, which is currently at a level five but risks being downgraded to a level six following a recent survey. Key discussion topics include the primary cause for the potential rating decrease, identified as critical staffing shortages within the fire department, and proposed budgetary adjustments to reallocate funds to support hiring efforts and maintain the necessary standards to preserve the current fire rating.

This document, titled 'Compass 2046,' outlines a long-range plan to guide the city's development over the next 20 years. The plan focuses on key areas such as growth, infrastructure, and quality of life priorities, encompassing aspects like development, roads, and flood protection. It emphasizes public input to shape future initiatives, aiming for sustainable growth while preserving the city's unique hospitality. Projects already in motion, such as a new dual-brand hotel and improvements to Garfield Ladner Pier, are presented as initial steps towards achieving these objectives.