A Zoning Hearing was held before the Magee Board of Aldermen met officially for its regular meeting on April 6. Director Evan Jones brought back to the board changes recommended to the zoning ordinance in April 2025.
After 20 minutes of discussion about these changes that focused primarily upon front yard fence height, the board passed a motion to table the issue and return the recommendations to the Zoning Board as it has new members.
Mayor Mark Grubbs opened the meeting inviting Mary Walker to offer public comments regarding her water bill. She stated the amount is higher than it has ever been and she believes she is paying too much. In addition, Walker presented several receipts showing billing and payments. Grubbs requested and Walker agreed thta she return to City Hall the next day for a deeper review.
The mayor stated that Lisa Ainsworth, DVM has closed on two properties near Highway 49N that will house a veterinary clinic as well as a groom/board facility. The tractor/side arm is scheduled for delivery this week.
While Magee City Park is in use and complete with the exception of signage, the board opted to delay setting a date for the grand opening until such time as the signage is installed.
Alderwoman Allyson Berch brought before the board ideas discussed the previous night, Monday, April 5, at a meeting with Main Street Magee for the celebration of America250. She added that nothing had been finalized at the meeting.
Berch said, “Start it (the celebration) on Thursday morning (July 2) with a prayer breakfast and then do a parade Thursday night. Do the fireworks and all Saturday night and maybe even move it back to the Sports Plex if we're not doing stuff downtown. We've got to meet with Susan at the Chamber and collaborate with them.”
Grubbs presented two special event applications and both were approved. On April 28 the Civic Center was booked for a birthday dinner. A Farmer’s Market was approved for Saturday, May 2, 8 a.m. to 12 noon in the parking lot adjacent to Magee Community House.
The board passed a motion to vacate the road on the Old Berry property.
Ordinance No.301 regarding the banning of the sale of Kratom and other compounds was introduced to the board. It accepted the ordinance and it will remain on file for two weeks before the board gives final approval.
Public Works Director Tim Bray thanked the county for use of its road equipment for asphalt laying. He submitted a written report to the board on department activities.
Alderman Julian Harper brought before the board the concerns constituents have regarding the closure affecting Siloam Road and the crossover at Highway 49. A lengthy discussion ensued between members of the audience and the Board of Aldermen. Grubbs said he would contact Brad White, executive director of the Mississippi Department of Transportation, to share the concerns but is not sure how much the city can actually do about the changes being made.
Police Chief Denis Borges requested approval of $350 for a police department dispatcher to attend required continuing education classes. The tuition is reimbursed by the state. The board approved the expenditure. Borges also requested executive session.
Fire Chief and Building Inspector David Craft submitted a written report. Craft also informed the board moving forward he will display issued permits at job sites. The department has returned to flowing hydrants. Magee is no longer under a burn ban as of March 17.
Jones submitted a written report on zoning issues.
At this point Harper brought before the board a constituent informed him of denial of use of a public bathroom in a local restaurant. All restaurants are to have bathrooms for public use. According to Jaclyn Rogers owner of restaurant Cattle Drive Grill patrons must be able to wash their hands. She suggested to Harper that his constituent contact the Health Department to lodge a complaint, stating “that is covered under what the health department regulates.”
Facilities Manager Cortez Chapman submitted a written report. It was noted the new air conditioning system was installed and is working at the Magee Civic Center. In addition LED lights have been installed in the lamp posts by the Magee Chamber and Magee Library and should come on automatically.
Parks and Recreation Director Jimmy Zila submitted a written report. The Sports Plex painting is scheduled to begin within the next two weeks. There was also discussion regarding a tie-in of the new fencing at City Park with the old ball field to prevent entrance after park closing as well as more trash cans and more trash pick-up as well. Grubbs stated he had two more cans delivered to the park and Voice of Hope residents will pick up trash on Saturdays at 6:30 pm.
Airport Manager David Moore stated the PAPI lights are working. He has power washed the majority of the sidewalks.
Emergency Management Manager Jon Hosey was absent.
With no further business the meeting moved into executive session.
