Starkville”s Board of Aldermen will tell the state House of Representatives what it thinks of the House”s proposed redistricting plan tonight.
An item under Board Business lists: “Consideration of a resolution to oppose the reapportionment plan of the House of Representatives passed on March 4.”
The proposed plan would split Starkville into five districts and increase Oktibbeha County”s representation from four to six, thus diluting Starkville and Oktibbeha”s voting strength on issues relevant to the area.
Sidewalks are also on the board”s agenda again tonight, and it won”t be the last time.
Changes to the recently proposed variance process have been added since the last meeting, meaning tonight will be the first hearing of the latest proposal. And the city prefers to offer two public hearings on any policy change before implementing said changes.
Chief Administrative Officer Lynn Spruill estimated tonight”s meeting represents the eighth or ninth public hearing since the sidewalk ordinance odyssey began in 2009.
Proposed changes to the city”s sign ordinance will also get a public hearing as Starkville hopes to eliminate pole-mounted signs not targeted to cars on the bypass within 10 years. Spruill said the city intends to direct businesses toward installing lower monument-style signs in the future. The proposed change is intended to eliminate visual clutter.
The board will also consider advertising a request for proposals for the city”s Capital Improvement Plan, a long-term plan for streets, drainage, major improvements and other plans which will shape the face of Starkville.
Jason Browne was previously a reporter for The Dispatch.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 29 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 29 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
