Toby Barker

The committee discussed updates on a legal case involving Lee Circle, noting that the tenants had vacated the property. Participants reviewed landlord-tenant laws and sample rental registration ordinances from other states, comparing the effectiveness of registration-only ordinances versus those requiring both registration and inspection. Additionally, the committee deliberated on potential registration fees and reporting periods to be included in a draft ordinance intended for council consideration.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding a billboard conversion appeal, which was rescheduled at the request of the petitioner. An update was provided on the Behavioral Health Court Program and federal grant funding. Discussions took place concerning fire department overtime, staffing, and potential salary and incentive improvements for fire and police personnel. Concerns were addressed regarding internal fire department personnel matters, code enforcement salary increases, and water issues at a citizen property. An update was given regarding a Façade Grant Program funded by Mississippi Power. The work session covered the Proposed Land Development Code, a request from the Historic Hattiesburg Downtown Association, and the management of homeless encampments and highway maintenance. The Council also held an executive session to discuss property acquisition.

The Council reviewed various policy and routine items, including the sale of a service weapon, the disposal of a surplus vehicle, authorization of bond and escrow account requisitions, and the execution of professional service contracts for financial audits, feasibility studies, bridge design, and engineering services. The Council also approved the 2017 CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan, payments for construction projects, and re-appointments to the Forrest County Industrial Park Commission. Additionally, the meeting included a Citizens' Forum covering concerns about Constitutional procedures, the fire department, sewer issues, and property drainage, followed by a work session on flood prevention and street paving. An executive session was held to discuss potential litigation and personnel matters with no action taken.

The council conducted an agenda review session and provided a forum for citizens to address the council members directly.

The council discussed and approved a motion to declare a temporary hiring freeze for all positions within the City of Hattiesburg, which explicitly includes all transfers and other movements of personnel.