The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will hold public meetings to gather community input on improving Jackson's drinking water system. These meetings are part of an effort to enhance oversight and develop mid- and long-term solutions for the city's water issues.
The meetings are scheduled at the Mississippi e-Center at Jackson State University, located at 1230 Raymond Road. They will take place on Thursday, October 10th at 6 p.m. CST in the e-Logistics Room, and Friday, October 11th at 10 a.m. CST in the California Room.
According to officials, feedback from previous public interactions through meetings, letters, emails, and phone calls has been received concerning the future of Jackson’s drinking water system. The upcoming sessions aim to collect further community input.
On November 29, 2022, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi issued an Interim Stipulated Order (ISO). This order was agreed upon by several parties including the EPA, DOJ, Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH), and the City of Jackson. The ISO aims to stabilize Jackson’s drinking water system by creating a Priority Projects List to address existing problems and establish sustainable practices. Edward “Ted” Henifin was appointed as the Interim Third-Party Manager (ITPM) to manage these projects and delay further litigation while working on long-term solutions.
In addition to in-person feedback during the meetings, community members can send their comments via email to JacksonMSWater@epa.gov until Friday, October 31, 2024.
Officials noted that details of ongoing negotiations with the City or MSDH cannot be discussed due to this civil enforcement action.
Further information is available on www.epa.gov/ms/jackson-ms-drinking-water
###