Weekly City Update: March 24, 2025
City of Jackson Remembers LaaWanda Jones-Horton
City of Jackson Director of Administration LaaWanda Jones-Horton has passed away. She was the wife of former Jackson Police Chief Lindsey Horton. She will be remembered for her service and commitment to the city of Jackson.
Update on Shooting After 2025 Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade & Festival
Eight people were shot hours after this year’s Hal’s St. Paddy’s Day Parade & Festival. The shooting occurred on Saturday, March 22, around 7 p.m. near the intersection of Lamar and Pearl Street. 21-year-old Cortez George died as a result of the shooting. Capitol Police is leading the investigation. No arrests have been made at this time. If you have any information, contact Capitol Police at 601.359.3125, the Jackson Police Department at 601.960.1234, or Crime Stoppers at 601.355.TIPS.
Also, fights among teenagers broke out around Thalia Mara Hall. Parents are being asked to take responsibility and ownership for their children’s actions.
City of Jackson to Implement a Yard of the Month Program
Each month, the City will recognize a homeowner who goes the extra mile to maintain an attractive, well-kept yard. Neighborhood associations will be asked to submit monthly, and winners will be announced on social media and via local news outlets. The program is a great way to encourage community pride and beautification by recognizing residents who maintain outstanding lawns and landscaping. More information is forthcoming.
Demolition of Coca-Cola Plant and Gipson Discount Foods on Highway 80
The City of Jackson has approved funding to demolish the old Coca-Cola plant and abandoned Gipson Discount Foods buildings on Highway 80. Funding is expected to be received in the coming days, and the final phase of asbestos testing for both sites is projected to be completed by the end of the week. Contractors should be able to request MDEQ clearance by next week, and the City of Jackson will issue notices to proceed the week after.
Jackson Police Department Citizen Self-Reporting System is Now Available
The Jackson Police Department’s Citizen Self-Reporting System is now available. Residents’ reports will be reviewed, and they will be contacted if further information is needed. Access the portal here.
Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods Seeking Vendors for Annual South Jackson Parade & Festival
The Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods (ASJN) has started planning for this year’s South Jackson Parade & Festival, scheduled for April 12, 2025. If you want to participate, please make plans and mark the date on your calendar. Visit ASJN’s website at www.asjn.org to register. Click on "Community Events" and select "South Jackson Parade & Festival, April 12, 2025". The other forms are also available for the parade. If you need any other information, contact ASJN Vice President Johnny Byrd at 601.720.9965.
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