Jackson City Council prepares for new year

JACKSON, Tenn — One last meeting to get ready for a new year.

“We’re giving land and taking land as a gift.” City of Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist said.

Tuesday Jackson City Council members and Mayor Jerry Gist met to approve the agenda for the upcoming January 3rd City Council meeting.

“Delta faucet has agreed to give the city 10.5 acres at the ballpark for potential expansion of parking at our stadium.” Mayor Gist said.

The company is giving the city the land for free and the city hopes it will help for future plans to grow the area.

“We’re in negotiations still working through to have a convention hotel and a convention center located at the ballpark.”  Mayor Gist said.

The city is not only getting land but giving as well.

“We’re giving 1.5 acres to West Tennessee Healthcare on Ridgecrest and Tiger Jones Park for a future EMS station there which they desperately need,” the mayor commented.

As they prepare for the new year Mayor Gist shared his 2016 highlights which include revitalizing the downtown area.

“We have people come into our city that haven’t been here for 10-15 years and they come in and are just in awe at what’s happening downtown area and the revitalization surrounding it.” he said.

He is also proud of the improvements to fight crime.

“Really thrilled at the reduction in crime over the past year which is down 13 percent which is a huge number, huge number.” Mayor Gist said.

And as for his plans for the new year,”Economic development. Obviously continue to land something at the mega-site which would really benefit Jackson more than anyone else.” Mayor Gist said.