Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 9th of April.
Good morning, Jackson.
🚧 Accidents
Firefighters responded to a house fire on the I-55 frontage road at Savanna Street in Jackson on Tuesday around 3 p.m.—the building was declared a total loss with no injuries reported and an investigation is underway, according to Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Armon.
A witness at Turcotte Fish Hatchery said he heard a loud boom before he saw a medical helicopter pitch and descend at a 45° angle and crash, killing flight nurse Dustin Pope, pilot Calvin Wesolowski, and a third crew member, while an aviation expert said the noise—likely from rotor blades striking the tail boom—pointed to a mechanical failure.
🌲 Environment
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality Permit Board in downtown Jackson denied the Drax wood pellet plant's request to upgrade its classification to a major source of hazardous air pollutants on Tuesday—five of six members voted against the change because it would allow more harmful emissions. Gloster residents who have long criticized the plant and its past fines spoke out during the meeting.
🏛️ Government
Jackson City Council is debating a pay raise for its members and the mayor.
Outgoing Council President Virgi Lindsay proposed a 40% increase for council members and a 42% raise for the mayor—a vote is scheduled in two weeks.
Lawmakers did not pass the state budget before the session ended on April 3 so Gov. Tate Reeves will call a special session by June 30 to work on the budget before the new fiscal year begins on July 1.
Reeves said he is confident that lawmakers will meet to solve key issues—such as PERS funding—without causing a government shutdown.
On Tuesday, interim water manager Ted Henifin proposed an 11.7% rate increase to add about $8.88 per month to customer bills—citing an $18 million budget that falls short of the approximately $115 million needed annually, which has led the system to operate at a loss since 2018.
The City Council will review the ordinance on April 22, and a federal judge will decide if rates can be raised.
Advocate Sandy Middleton and lawmaker Dana McLean discussed new bills—awaiting the Governor’s signature—that would support sexual assault survivors by requiring hospitals to keep enough rape kits and trained staff.
A separate measure that offers immunity for reports when drugs are involved and Senate Bill 2211 will take effect July 1 if approved.
🎉 Jackson Events
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Chris Knight Live Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Ticket information available — Experience the unflinching truth of Americana with Chris Knight's heartfelt tunes.
Taylor Hollingsworth Live Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Cash or card accepted — Enjoy an evening of live music with a full bar experience.
Mississippi Ag Innovations Center Event
3-7 p.m. — 2548 Livingston Rd, Jackson, MS — Registration required — Explore innovative growing systems through hands-on farming techniques.
Joanne Shaw Taylor Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — $47 — Experience an electrifying night of blues and rock music with Joanne Shaw Taylor.
Lions Spring Showcase
12:30 PM — Reimagine Prep Middle School — Free entry — Experience the energy of student performances and sign up for extracurricular activities.
Southern Avenue Live at Martin's Downtown
8 PM – 1 AM — Martin's Downtown — Cost not specified — Experience the electrifying blend of roots, blues, and soul from the GRAMMY-nominated Southern Avenue.
Bunnies & Butterflies Spring Festival
10 AM – 3 PM — Mississippi Children's Museum — Admission varies — Celebrate Spring with live bunnies and educational fun.
La Luz Live with Special Guest Color Green
8-11 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Cash or card accepted at door — Experience the cosmic sounds of La Luz as they celebrate their latest album with a night of live music.
Jay Webb Live Performance
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Cash or card accepted at door — Experience the unfiltered sounds of Alabama's own Jay Webb, a rising star in country music.
REDFERRIN Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Duling Hall Live Music & Events — Tickets starting at $21 — Enjoy a night of live music with Redferrin in Jackson.
🏠 Jackson Real Estate
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💼 Jackson Job Board
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📣 Jackson Announcements
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