Appropriation; Holmes County Heritage and Cultural Foundation for construction of Hazel Brannon Smith Memorial Park.
Impact
The establishment of the Hazel Brannon Smith Memorial Park is expected to enhance the cultural landscape of Lexington and serve as an outdoor museum park that features displays and exhibitions. This development aligns with broader goals of appreciating and acknowledging local history and contributions made by significant figures like Hazel Brannon Smith. The appropriation represents not only a financial commitment but also a recognition of cultural heritage and the legacy of journalism in Mississippi.
Summary
House Bill 1859 proposes an appropriation of $250,000 to the Holmes County Heritage and Cultural Foundation, Inc. for the construction of the Hazel Brannon Smith Memorial Park in Lexington, Mississippi. This park aims to honor Hazel Brannon Smith, a prominent journalist and the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing in 1964. The funding is intended to cover costs associated with the park’s development during the fiscal year 2026, which begins on July 1, 2025, and ends on June 30, 2026.
Contention
While the bill generally aims for cultural enrichment, its reception could vary depending on legislative priorities and opinions on funding allocation. Discussions around the merit and necessity of investing in cultural projects vis-à-vis other pressing state needs could arise. Additionally, the bill's support may hinge upon the perceived benefits of memorial projects versus direct funding for education, healthcare, or infrastructure.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.