PRESS RELEASE
City of Meridian, Mississippi
City of Meridian Passes New Budget Focused on Public Safety, Infrastructure, and
Quality of Life
Momentum Forward: No Tax Increases, Stronger Services, Safer Community
Meridian, MS. 9-25-2025
The City of Meridian has officially passed its new fiscal year budget, marking a renewed
commitment to strengthening every department of city government while reinforcing the
core values that define our community.
“When we arrived on July 1, the work on the budget began immediately,” said Mayor
Percy Bland. “We knew from the very start that we had to strengthen our police
department, and we had to strengthen public safety. That’s been our priority from day
one, and this budget reflects that commitment. And I am especially proud to share that
we have accomplished this with no tax increases for our citizens.”
Key Budget Highlights
Public Safety & Police Department
Funding for additional police officers to expand patrol coverage.
Invest in new technology, vehicles, and updated equipment to help officers respond
faster and more effectively.
Expanded training and community engagement programs to strengthen trust and
transparency.
Fire & Emergency Services
Continued investment in fire prevention education, impacting more than 4,000 students
a year.
Upgrades to fire stations and emergency response equipment.
Public Works & Infrastructure
Funding for road paving, drainage improvements, and long-term water and sewer
system upgrades.
New equipment for sanitation and street maintenance to improve service efficiency.
Parks & Recreation
Expanded support for youth programs and citywide events like Touch-A-Truck,
FEASTival, and community sports leagues.
Park improvement projects focused on family spaces, trails, and green areas.
Community Development
Stronger enforcement and cleanup of illegal dumping and blight.
Demolition and revitalization of abandoned structures to restore neighborhood pride.
Incentives to support small business growth and new investments across the city.
Mayor Bland also expressed gratitude for the teamwork and dedication that made this
budget possible:
“I want to thank our City Council for their hard work and commitment to the people of
Meridian. Our values align for the greater good, and their collaboration has been
essential in shaping this budget. I am also deeply grateful to our department heads and
city employees, who have worked tirelessly to provide input, direction, and dedication to
serving our citizens. Together, we are moving Meridian forward — responsibly,
effectively, and without raising taxes.”
This new budget reinforces Meridian’s financial foundation while focusing on safety,
infrastructure, and quality of life. With the support of City Council, department heads,
employees, and community members, the city is building a stronger, safer, and more
vibrant future.
For more information, please visit www.meridiansms.org.
