‘Save the Debt’ petition pushes for $18M bond issue on ballot for Biloxi voters

BILOXI, Miss. (WXXV) — A petition called ‘Stop the Debt’ is circulating as the Biloxi City Council announced they are seeking a general obligation bond of up to $18 million.

The petition has been making its rounds across the City of Biloxi – collecting over 1,200 signatures in hopes of hitting pause on the city’s decision to pursue an $18 million dollar bond which would be used to address infrastructure projects.

The bond issue was approved on February 10th, and since then, Wendy Lally stepped up to create the petition in hopes it will put a stop to the city’s decision and place the power in the community’s hands.

“Two councilmembers did mention the city’s financial hardships they’re having — budget shortfalls. Clearly that’s why they’re asking for a bond debt to cover some of that $18 million. Whether it’s a lack of transparency, or its just actually finding out where the money is going and how it’s being spent. I think that’s thread for most everyone in Biloxi. The assumption is that we should have enough money to be able to run our city effectively, and why do we need to increase that debt to cover these projects?” said Lally. “Honestly and truthfully, I think any time it is decided to increase the debt, it should go to a vote to the citizens. Ultimately, if our taxes are increased because of the new debt, that’s something the residents should decide on. They’re the ones who are going to be paying those taxes, not the city council members. It will directly impact everyone that resides in Biloxi, so I do believe having a vote is a civic way to do it.”

According to city council members we spoke with, the laundry list of issues the city is looking to address includes repairs to rooves, AC units and generators in public buildings, as well as sidewalk updates and drainage problems.

Ward 6 City Councilman Kenny Glavan says the city is not necessarily looking to spend a full $18 million on the projects, but they are hoping to make necessary improvements to Biloxi.

“We actually mentioned this in our budget — a $10 million bond. I personally do not support an up to $18 million bond. The measure that was passed was just that. We gave our bond representatives the ability to go tell the MDA bank that we plan to borrow up to $18 million, but the actual amount won’t be set until we pass another resolution that we actually set that amount, and we can reduce that amount. I think that’s where you’ll see it. I don’t see the council approving an $18 million bond,” said Glavan. “I think we need to look at it and be very responsible. We know that we need bond money to help these long-term projects. We don’t have a reserve account or a fund balance that would be able to cover this, so that’s why you use bond money. Just for this reason. I also want to note that we have the best bond rating in the entire state of Mississippi. That’s important to know. What does that mean? That means we are in good financial health to be able to borrow money that other municipalities may not be able to do.”

If 1,500 signatures are collected on the petition by the March 17 deadline, it will force a citywide vote on the issue, which will require a 60% approval.

Those interested in signing the petition can contact Wendy Lally at (228) 596-1883 or lally731@gmail.com.