Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed into law Tuesday a bill creating the Jackson Metro Water Authority, aimed at overseeing the city’s troubled water system. The legislation, known as the Jackson Metro Water Authority Act, was opposed by many Jackson-area politicians.
The law establishes a nine-member board to manage Jackson’s water system. It includes appointments by the mayor of Jackson, the mayors of Byram and Ridgeland, the governor in consultation with Jackson’s mayor, the lieutenant governor, and additional appointments by the governor, according to the governor’s office.
Reeves said he signed the bill to ensure Jackson residents have access to “clean, reliable water,” following a system failure in 2022 that led to federal receivership in 2023. Since then, legal disputes and public disagreements have gained headlines.
Critics, including Jackson Mayor John Horhn, expressed concern about the law’s structure. Horhn said the city is grateful for legislative help but questions remain about accountability, debt, and decision-making authority. He also raised concerns about what happens when disagreements arise between the city and the authority.
Jackson-area State Senator Hillman Frazier voiced frustration that Byram and Ridgeland, which receive water from Jackson, have no financial obligations to the system. He argued they should share accountability and debt, adding to ongoing debates about fairness and responsibility.
The law requires appointments to be made by May 1, but questions remain about meeting that deadline. Jackson Water has indicated it will wait to see how courts interpret the new legislation and how the transition unfolds.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
