Mississippi Senate Bill SB2837

Mississippi 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/24
• Refer: 2/19/24
• Failed: 3/27/24

Caption

Bonds; authorize to West Jackson County Utility District for water tank and replacement of asbestos water main piping.

Impact

The implementation of SB2837 is expected to significantly enhance public health and safety standards in areas affected by aging and hazardous water infrastructure. By replacing old asbestos water mains, the bill seeks to mitigate health risks associated with asbestos exposure and to ensure safe drinking water for local residents. Moreover, the establishment of a water tank will improve the overall water supply and system reliability for the utility district, ultimately benefiting the community’s daily operations and development.

Summary

Senate Bill 2837 is an Act that authorizes the issuance of state general obligation bonds to help finance the replacement of failing asbestos water main piping and the construction of a water tank within the West Jackson County Utility District in Mississippi. The bill aims to address urgent infrastructure needs by allocating funds specifically designated to improve water services in impacted areas similar to Cedar Grove in Jackson County. The total amount of bonds that may be issued under this legislation will not exceed $5.5 million, and it is stipulated that no bonds will be issued after July 1, 2028.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, the bill could face scrutiny regarding budget allocations and prioritization of infrastructure spending. Some stakeholders might argue that the funding should be diversified to address broader community needs beyond just focused improvements in specific districts. It will be crucial for the agency in charge of disbursing the funds to ensure transparency and efficiency to gain public trust and support for such initiatives. Moreover, opponents may raise concerns about the long-term maintenance costs associated with newly constructed infrastructure, questioning whether the bill adequately considers future financial implications for the utility district.