JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – After signing the Metro Jackson Water Authority Act into law, Gov. Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) said the new law is necessary to ensure reliable water service in the capital city.
Some lawmakers opposed the bill during the 2026 Legislative Session due to concerns that the City of Jackson would not have a majority control on the board. Under the new law, the mayor of Jackson would appoint three members, with a ninth seat jointly selected by the governor and mayor.
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Reeves said the city does not need a majority control of the water system going forward.
“I think the city has proven they do not need majority control. In 2022 and when I had to sign an emergency declaration and take over the water system from the city, I think it is proof to not only the people of the state, but proof to the people of the City of Jackson, that they were not capable of running the system at that time. To be fair, we have a new mayor, we have new members of the City Council, who I think are focused on doing the right things,” said Reeves. “But this water authority that was created by the legislature, I was happy to sign it, as there is going to be input from all parties to run this particular system and ensure that clean, safe, affordable water is provided to the citizens of Jackson, because they deserve that.”…