Residents of Jackson’s LOHO neighborhood association gathered for their annual meeting, featuring remarks from Capitol Police Lieutenant Jeremy Gordon, constituent services director Pearlean Campbell of Mayor John Horhn’s administration, and LOHO Neighborhood Association President David Munn.
LOHO consists of about 400 homes bordered by Meadowbrook Road to the north, Ridgewood Road to the east, Eastover Drive to the south and I-55 to the west.
Lieutenant Jeremy Gordon opened the meeting with an overview of Capitol Police operations, focusing on recent improvements in technology, response times, and specialized services.
One of the most notable developments is the integration of a more streamlined court process for offenses within the Capitol Complex Improvement District (CCID). Gordon explained that the system is designed for speed and efficiency, allowing individuals cited or arrested within the district to be processed quickly, sometimes within hours.
“We’re trying to reduce paperwork and move toward real-time reporting,” Gordon said, noting that judges can now review police reports electronically rather than waiting for physical documents.
He emphasized that many residents remain unaware of how the CCID court operates, including its location at the redeveloped site of the former Greyhound bus station on Jefferson Street. The court handles both traffic citations and criminal matters originating within the district, as well as certain cases that begin elsewhere but intersect with Capitol Police jurisdiction.
Mental Health Response Becomes Priority
A major focus of Gordon’s presentation was the expansion of crisis intervention efforts.
Capitol Police now deploy Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) officers trained to respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises. Unlike traditional policing, these officers prioritize treatment over arrest.
“The goal is not to take someone to jail—it’s to get them stabilized,” Gordon said, describing partnerships with facilities like the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Merit Health, and Oceans Behavioral Hospital.
Residents were also encouraged to use the statewide 988 crisis hotline, which connects callers to mental health professionals rather than law enforcement when appropriate. The system is intended to reduce the burden on police while improving care for individuals in crisis.
Response Times and Communication Gaps
Gordon acknowledged ongoing communication challenges, particularly with 911 routing. Calls to 911 are often transferred between agencies before reaching Capitol Police, causing delays.
To address this, he encouraged residents to use Capitol Police’s direct non-emergency line for faster response in non-urgent situations. He estimated average response times at around five minutes once dispatch receives the call.
Residents raised concerns about panhandling and enforcement inconsistencies. Gordon said officers will respond to complaints and track repeat offenders, though he noted that enforcement mechanisms—such as permitting systems—are still evolving.
City Hall’s Perspective: Constituent Services and System Challenges
Pearlean Campbell, director of constituent services for Mayor Horhn, delivered a wide-ranging presentation focused on improving responsiveness and rebuilding trust between residents and city government.
Campbell described her office as the “ears and eyes” of the mayor, tasked with addressing everyday issues such as potholes, blight, drainage problems, and infrastructure failures.
“We take calls 24/7,” she said. “If you say come look at something, we will come.”
A New Approach to Accountability
Campbell emphasized that her office is implementing a more structured follow-up system—something she suggested had been lacking in prior administrations.
When residents report problems, her team now logs them, assigns responsibility to department heads, and sets deadlines for resolution. Crucially, residents receive updates.
“You’re going to have a timeline,” she said. “That’s the difference.”
This shift reflects a broader effort by the Horhn administration to improve basic service delivery—an issue that has long frustrated Jackson residents.
Water System Confusion and Frustration
One of the most contentious topics was the city’s water system, now managed by a third-party entity known as Jackson Water.
Campbell clarified that the city no longer controls water and sewer services, a change that has created widespread confusion among residents.
“If you have a water issue, that’s Jackson Water—not the city,” she said, explaining that billing, repairs, and policy decisions are outside municipal control.
Residents shared stories of exorbitant water bills, including one reportedly exceeding $50,000. Campbell acknowledged the frustration but reiterated that the city’s authority is limited.
The administration is working to regain some level of control or oversight, though no timeline was provided.
Homelessness and Public Safety Concerns
Campbell also addressed the growing visibility of homelessness in Jackson, particularly in downtown areas and increasingly in residential neighborhoods.
She outlined plans for a coordinated response involving task forces, designated housing facilities, and partnerships with nonprofit organizations.
“We’re trying to get people off the streets and into buildings,” she said, noting that mental illness and lack of resources are major contributing factors.
However, she acknowledged the scale of the challenge and the strain on city resources.
Residents raised concerns about safety, including reports of fires, property damage, and encampments in public spaces. Campbell said the city is working to centralize services and improve coordination but admitted that progress will take time.
Police Reform and Leadership Changes
Campbell pointed to upcoming leadership changes within the Jackson Police Department as a potential turning point.
“With a new chief coming in, you’re going to start seeing change,” she said, referencing plans for new strategies and innovations in crime prevention.
She framed the administration’s approach as both immediate and long-term—addressing urgent issues while building systems for sustained improvement.
Neighborhood Priorities: Finances, Safety, and Growth
LOHO Neighborhood Association President David Munn concluded the meeting with an update on neighborhood operations and priorities.
Munn reported that the neighborhood association remains financially stable, with annual dues generating approximately $15,000 to $16,000.
However, participation remains limited.
“About 65% of homeowners are paying dues,” he said, noting that increased participation would enable more projects and improvements.
The association’s monthly expenses have risen from roughly $1,200 to $1,500, reflecting broader cost increases.
Traffic Calming and Infrastructure
One of the neighborhood’s top concerns is traffic safety.
Munn outlined plans to explore traffic calming measures, including speed bumps and signage. A formal study—estimated at $3,500—would be required before implementation, followed by a neighborhood vote.
While some residents support the measures, others are wary of reduced convenience.
“It’s a balance,” Munn said, emphasizing the need for community consensus.
Surveillance and Security Investments
The neighborhood has already invested in a network of security cameras, with six locations currently operational and accessible to Capitol Police.
However, gaps remain.
“We have 11 entrances and only six covered,” Munn said, suggesting that expanding the system could improve security but would require significant funding.
Residents discussed newer technologies, including license plate readers and AI-assisted tracking, though cost remains a barrier.
Real Estate Trends Show Strength
Despite broader concerns about crime and infrastructure, the neighborhood’s housing market appears strong.
Munn reported that 11 homes sold in the past year at an average price of $124 per square foot, up from $113 the previous year.
“It’s a great sign,” he said, noting that recent listings have sold quickly.
