The city of Jackson has filed a lawsuit seeking to stop a new water authority from taking over its water system. The move comes as the city challenges a law signed earlier this month by Gov. Tate Reeves that establishes the Jackson Metro Water Authority.
The authority, which could assume control as early as 2027, would replace federal oversight currently managed by JXN Water, a third-party utility appointed by a federal judge. The city argues that the law diminishes Jackson’s influence over its water system, which remains tied to its assets and debt.
Jackson Mayor John Horhn’s office announced Monday that it filed a motion asking a federal district court to block the law’s implementation. Horhn contends that only the court can determine the next steps in managing the city’s water crisis, which prompted federal oversight following a 2022 crisis that left more than 100,000 residents without safe drinking water.
The law creates a governance structure with appointments divided among the Jackson mayor, the governor, and the lieutenant governor, with additional members from nearby cities Byram and Ridgeland. Jackson officials have criticized the structure for reducing their influence and for allowing representatives from other cities to set rates and oversee operations.
Horhn emphasized that Jackson owns the water assets and remains responsible for related debt. He argued that the city should have control over its assets and that any future legislation should reflect that responsibility. The court’s decision is expected on May 1, the deadline for board appointments under the law, during a scheduled status conference.
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
