MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The City of Meridian held its official Mayoral and City Council Inauguration Ceremony on Monday morning, marking the return of Percy Bland as mayor for a third term.
The ceremony began at 10 a.m. on June 30, 2025, with a reception following at 11:30 a.m. at City Hall, where Mayor Bland spoke about his vision for the city and what residents can expect in the coming days.
Bland previously served as Meridian’s mayor from 2013 to 2021. He was succeeded by Jimmie Smith, who held the position from 2021 to 2025. Now, Bland is set to begin his third term officially on July 1.
“The most important thing we’re going to be doing from day one is amping up the police department. Malachi Sanders should be sworn in tomorrow,” Bland said, announcing his pick for Meridian Police Chief. Sanders’ appointment is pending approval from the City Council.
Bland added that residents can expect swift changes. “You’re going to see a new look the first 7-10 days.”
He emphasized that public safety would remain a top priority in his administration. “The most important thing right now is to work with the police department. Everyone’s most important issue is public safety, and we just want to go on and hit the ground running from there.”
Sanders is expected to hold a press conference at the Meridian Police Department shortly after being sworn in. “Our Police Chief is going to have a press conference at the police department as soon as he’s sworn in tomorrow,” Bland said.
Reflecting on challenges from his prior administration, Bland noted the importance of council cooperation. “A lot of people don’t understand sometimes how government works. So, the last time, I did not get a steady Chief until the very end because the council wanted specific things. I think this council is giving me a very strong person to lead the department starting tomorrow, and we’re about to get some things done.”
“We know we’re in a fight right now to get our streets back to the good guys, and that’s what we’re trying to do,” he added.
During Tuesday’s City Council meeting, Bland plans to unveil the remainder of his department head appointments, including positions for Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Financial Officer/City Clerk, Community Development Director, Fire Chief, Parks and Recreation Director, Public Safety and Training Director, and Public Works Director. Authorization of a new city logo is also on the agenda.
Speaking about the incoming council, Bland expressed optimism: “I mean, they’re working with me. They talked about a lot of the same issues that were important to them and the people they talk to in their wards — those are important to me as Mayor. I think we’re going to have a good work relationship. That’s what we need to help this city, so that’s what we plan on doing.”
To the people of Meridian, Bland offered a message of inclusion and service: “For those that voted for me, thank you. For those that didn’t vote for me, I’m going to still be your mayor and I’m going to work on the issue that are important to you, and I want you guys to support this administration and to support our team. Not just the department heads but also the other people sometimes under those department heads that are going to be trying all they can to improve our city.”
