MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Meridian Mayor Percy Bland marked the completion of his first year of his third non-consecutive term Wednesday by highlighting accomplishments in public safety, infrastructure, neighborhood revitalization and economic development while outlining priorities for the year ahead.
Bland delivered his annual State of the City address on July 1, thanking residents for their confidence in his administration and describing the past year as one focused on building a stronger foundation for the city’s future.
“This isn’t simply a report about the past twelve months,” Bland said. “It’s the story of a city that chose to move forward.”
Bland, who was elected to a third non-consecutive term in 2025, said his administration has centered its efforts on creating a community where people want to live, work, raise families and invest.
The mayor pointed to several public safety milestones achieved during the past year, including a nearly 60% decline in calls for service, growth of the Meridian Police Department to approximately 80 sworn officers and the securing of $750,000 to establish a Real Time Crime Center.
Bland credited Police Chief Malachi Sanders, officers and civilian employees for their service, while also recognizing Meridian Fire Chief Michael Evans, firefighters and Public Safety Director Greg Morgan for their commitment to protecting residents and strengthening emergency preparedness.
“We’re proud of the progress we’ve made,” Bland said. “But we’re not satisfied. We’ll continue investing in our people. We’ll continue investing in technology. We’ll continue strengthening partnerships.”
Infrastructure also remained a major focus during the administration’s first year. Bland announced the city secured $10 million in federal funding for wastewater improvements, describing it as one of Meridian’s largest infrastructure investments in recent years.
“Those dollars aren’t simply repairing pipes,” Bland said. “They’re preparing Meridian for future growth. They’re preparing Meridian for future investment. And they’re preparing Meridian for the next generation.”
The mayor praised employees in the Public Works Department for maintaining city services and recognized the Finance and Records Department for managing taxpayer dollars and helping secure grant funding.
Bland said one of the administration’s most significant accomplishments has been rebuilding public confidence.
“People sometimes ask me what has changed the most over this past year,” Bland said. “My answer isn’t a project. It isn’t a building. It isn’t even a budget. It’s confidence.”
During the second half of his address, Bland highlighted efforts by the Community Development Department to address blighted properties, remove unsafe structures and combat illegal dumping, saying those initiatives have helped improve neighborhoods across Meridian. He pointed to Highland Park as an example of renewed community investment, noting families are returning, events are increasing and residents are gathering once again.
The mayor also recognized Parks and Recreation Director Thomas Adams and his department for expanding opportunities through parks, youth athletics and community events.
On economic development, Bland said the city continues working with businesses, educational institutions and workforce organizations while encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting small business growth.
“I also believe some of Meridian’s greatest opportunities haven’t been built yet,” Bland said. “They’re sitting in classrooms. They’re working in small offices. They’re opening businesses on our downtown streets.”
Looking ahead to the administration’s second year, Bland said the city’s priorities will remain focused on improving public safety, investing in infrastructure, strengthening neighborhoods, supporting entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for young people.
“We’ll continue making Meridian safer,” he said. “We’ll continue strengthening neighborhoods. We’ll continue investing in infrastructure. We’ll continue supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses.”
Bland concluded by thanking the City Council, county, state and federal leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, military partners, nonprofit organizations and residents for their continued support.
“Momentum has never been the destination,” Bland said. “It’s the evidence that we’re moving in the right direction.”
The speech marked the first anniversary of Bland’s current four-year term, which began July 1, 2025, following his election to serve a third, non-consecutive term as mayor.
