Mayor Conger responds to criticism of stadium name

FROM CITY OF JACKSON MAYOR SCOTT CONGER VIA FACEBOOK 7/24/25:

There’s been some criticism about the name of the new stadium at the JCM campus, specifically why “JCM” isn’t in the name and why it’s being referred to as Hub City Field. So let’s clear a few things up:

• The City of Jackson had no role in the construction of the stadium.
• We were not involved in naming the field.
• We have no operational authority over the school system or its decisions.
• The City of Jackson did not give $3 million to the school system.

What we did do was sell the Oman Arena to the Jackson-Madison County Schools for $1 – a contribution to a much bigger vision.

This project was made possible because of the bold leadership of the School Board and Superintendent Dr. Marlon King, who had the vision and commitment to make a historic investment in our students and their future. That deserves praise, not nitpicking.

Whether the stadium name includes “JCM” or not, the real win is that students now have access to a top-tier facility, which is something our community has talked about needing for decades.

Let’s take a step back and look at the bigger picture. This is a milestone for public education in Jackson-Madison County. Let’s focus on what really matters, our kids, and celebrate the progress being made on their behalf.

SEE ALSO: Hub City Central expected to be completed in time for football season (7/22/25)