Diamondhead, Mississippi Development News
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City of Diamondhead Council Meeting 07.07.2026
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Updates on Canal Dredging, Boardwalks, Paving, and Other City Projects
The city manager reported on the progress of several infrastructure projects. The canal dredging project is experiencing delays due to excessive clay content making it difficult to pump material to the beneficial use site, and worsened access to the Wolf River site due to rain has caused barges to run aground. The FY26 paving project is complete with striping done, pending final walk-through. The Jordan River Boardwalk project is on schedule, with minor design changes under consideration. The MJO Creek project is progressing with boardwalk construction and trailhead work. The Run-A-Way Nature Trail Phase 1 (parking and trailhead) is awaiting permitting and will be put out for bid. The bank stabilization project is out for bid, pending easement acquisition. MDOT's paving project is causing periodic closures of local on/off ramps. The Pelican Cove project, involving pond cleaning and weir adjustments, is up for advertisement. The dog park is nearing completion with turf installation.
City Manager Provides Updates on Multiple Infrastructure Projects, Including Dredging, Paving, and Boardwalks
The city manager provided updates on several ongoing and upcoming projects. The canal dredging project faces challenges with excessive clay material hindering pumping to the beneficial use site and has seen access to the Wolf River site worsened by rain, causing barges to run aground. The FY26 paving project is completed, with roads striped and a walk-through planned for final touches. The Jordan River Boardwalk project is progressing well, with minor design changes being considered. The MJO Creek project is underway with work on a raised boardwalk and trailhead parking. The Run-A-Way Nature Trail (Phase 1) is awaiting permitting, with the parking area and trailhead to be bid soon. The bank stabilization project is out for bid, pending easement acquisition. The MDOT project involves paving affecting local on/off ramps, causing periodic closures. The Pelican Cove project, for cleaning out a pond and adjusting a weir, is up for advertisement. The dog park is nearing completion with turf installation. Residents also voiced concerns about ongoing flooding issues exacerbated by recent drainage projects.
Variance Approved for 7840 Maui Circle Side Property Line Setback
The council considered a variance request for property located at 7840 Maui Circle (Tax Parcel ID 067R-2-36-187) in an R6 zoning district. The property requires a variance of 2.6 feet from the 10-foot side property line setback requirement for residential structures. A motion to approve was made by Councilman Clark and seconded by Councilman Shepard. The motion passed with all in favor after a brief discussion.
FY26 Budget Projections Show Increased Revenue and Expenses, Positive Financial Outlook
The city manager presented an overview of the FY26 budget projections, highlighting an anticipated $200,000 increase in overall revenues and a similar $200,000 increase in overall expenses. Key revenue increases include intergovernmental funding ($80,000 more than anticipated, from FEMA grants for generators) and miscellaneous revenues like building rental fees and interest income. Expense increases are largely attributed to carryover from previous purchase orders for engineering fees related to the canal dredging project, which was budgeted two years prior. Several departments, including court, police (due to vehicle purchase via state CAPEX funds), and building, are showing reduced expenses due to unfilled positions or reduced spending. The city expects to end the fiscal year with a positive cash balance.
Diamond Head Welcomes Chad Dorne as First Chief of Police
The city council meeting included the swearing-in ceremony for Chad Dorne as the first Chief of Police for the city of Diamond Head. Mayor Lacy highlighted the historic nature of this milestone, which fulfills a long-term vision established in 2012 when the city incorporated. The mayor expressed gratitude to the Hancock County Sheriff's Office and Sheriff Freaky Adam for their past service and welcomed Chief Dorne, emphasizing his experience, integrity, and commitment to public service. The ceremony involved Chief Dorne taking the oath of office, pledging to support the constitutions and ordinances of Diamond Head and to faithfully discharge the duties of his office.
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