Special Called Workshop Feb. 3, 2026

The City of Biloxi held a special workshop to discuss the creation of project accounts for each of the seven wards, focusing on the distribution and spending rules of funds under the Mississippi Modernization Act (MIMA). The council debated the legality and practicality of allocating funds equally among wards versus prioritizing based on need, with concerns about maintaining flexibility for emergency repairs and avoiding restrictions that could negatively impact the city's bond rating. The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration between the council and the mayor's office, emphasizing that project funding decisions should involve both legislative input and executive oversight. The council agreed to investigate how the City of Gulfport manages similar allocations and to continue refining the budget process to ensure fair and effective use of MIMA funds, with plans for future workshops to develop a workable framework.