Walt A. Rode (say “road-ee”), the civil engineer whom Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich hired six and a half months ago to oversee the city’s massive infrastructure work, answers the tough questions on this week’s City Desk Podcast.
Among them: Why is every street in east Biloxi torn up at the same time? What’s the key to moving this project forward? What’s the cost? When will work move south of the railroad tracks, and will residents see the same widespread disruption?
Listen to the answers on City Desk
News and notes
Hiller Park pavilion: Parks & Recreation Director Sherry Bell reports that city crews are nearly complete with the major overhaul of the popular pavilion at the north end of the park. Plans are to have it back in service in mid-January. Rental information is forthcoming. To see photos of the pre-construction photos, click here.
Sales tax bump: The November report from the Mississippi Department of Revenue shows that the city’s tax collection jumped by 5.5 percent, to just shy of a million dollars. The November report, says Biloxi finance guru Kenneth McKeown, reflects sales taxes collected in September. To see the numbers for Coast cities, click here.
Natatorium heater: It’s not quite cold enough for the Polar Bear plunge, but the water is a bit cooler these days at the Biloxi Natatorium’s indoor Olympic-size pool, pending installation of a new heater. No timetable at this writing, but the Natatorium will remain open. Adds Parks & Rec Superintendent Jamie Lee: “Swimmers can call the Natatorium at 228-435-6205 to check the water temperature. Another option would be to wear a wet suit if cooler temperatures affect you.”
Antique gift: Biloxi’s well-traveled chief administrative officer, Mike Leonard, has worn his share of hats over the years, even a firefighters helmet. Leonard donated an antique chief’s helmet to the West End Hose Co. No. 3, the city’s fire museum today. To see photos, click here.
