Columbus Mayor Reflects on City Progress and Future Goals
Columbus, Miss. – Mayor Keith Gaskin, despite having limited time left in office, is not slowing down when it comes to advancing the city’s progress. He took the stage to share updates with local business and community leaders, highlighting key achievements and ongoing projects that promise to shape the city’s future.
Education Achievements Shine
One of the notable points emphasized was the success of local schools. It was announced that both Columbus City Schools and Lowndes County Schools received commendable accountability scores, with Columbus achieving a solid “B” rating and Lowndes County scoring an impressive “A.” This recognition reflects the hard work of educators and students alike, showcasing Columbus as a city committed to educational excellence.
Business Expansion on the Horizon
Exciting news concerning local businesses was also shared. The expansion at Burford Electric is paving the way for new job creation, which resonates positively in the community. Additionally, a potential deal with a national retailer looking at the old K-Mart building on Highway 45 has set the stage for developments. The LINK, a local economic development organization, played an instrumental role in fostering these opportunities.
Prioritizing Financial Health
As the term comes to a close, there are strong intentions of ensuring fiscal responsibility. Plans for a forensic audit aimed at examining the city’s spending in recent years were mentioned. Encouraging news about the city’s finances was shared, revealing a capital fund in place with about $5 million to help plan for future capital needs throughout the city.
However, the existing $33 million city debt needs addressing. The importance of sustainable financial practices was emphasized to avoid going back into debt.
Celebrating Community Milestones
A special celebration for a completed city project—the repair of the Old River Bridge—is set to take place soon, providing an opportunity for the community to gather and celebrate the progress being made in their city.
Connecting with Our Community
The focus remains rooted in enhancing the lives of Columbus residents. From educational achievements to developing the local economy and maintaining fiscal health, the dedication to progress continues to shine through, stressing the importance of community involvement and connection.
The outlook for Columbus remains bright as community efforts and leadership strive for progress, ensuring the city grows and thrives, fostering a lasting impact for residents.
