Twin States News
WHAT'S GOING ON? City of Meridian discusses host special meeting U.S. Congressional Delegation
By Jacobus Roby
Members of the United States Congressional Delegation stopped by the Queen City, for a meeting with local leaders and business owners. A key discussion was about improvements happening around East Mississippi.
Having the chance to speak with State Senators and Congress about impacting the community is not something that happens every day, so as the City of Meridian had a chance to speak with the U.S. Congressional Delegation, one topic that was discussed was Waste Water Improvements
“On the energy committee, we brought to Meridian, $10 million from the Army Corps section; the 2/19 section; to support the Construction of Wastewater improvements for the city of Meridian. $10 Million Dollars was just delivered," says Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith.
Public Works Director David Hodge expressed what that means for the city and how it will affect residents.
“These funds will be used for two different pipe sewer lines. One on the west side of town, and one on the east side of town, so it’s going to go a long way to help us get our sewer pipes rehabbed, replaced; to where they’re functional and can support growth in the city of Meridian.”
He also emphasized the need for improvements and the significance the funds will help make.
“Because we’ve disinvested in our sewer system through the years deferred maintenance, and so now we’re trying to catch up for lost time. So, it’s a big program, we’re expecting at least 200 million dollars over the next 10 – 15 years. Maybe more.”
Today’s special meeting with the Congress Delegation served as a way for businesspeople and leaders to come out and talk about things affecting Meridian, and East Mississippi.