Court approves annexation plan in Ocean Springs

The City of Ocean Springs gets a win in court in its quest to annex land on the eastern boundaries of the city limits.

In a post of Facebook, Jackson County Supervisor Randy Bosarge saying the court-approved plan is now taking effect.

The newly annexed lands are in pink and are located just north and south of the intersection of Highways 90 and 57.

Bosarge indicates that no neighborhoods in Gulf Park Estates were annexed, just the businesses facing Old Spanish Trail in that area.

So, what does this mean for those in the newly annexed areas? Ocean Springs fire and police departments will immediately handle calls in the newly-annexed areas, with county assistance as-needed.

The transition to other city services will happen at a later date.

This is a developing story and we will have more information as it becomes available.

In a statement to WXXV, Ocean Springs Mayor Kenny Holloway said: “The City of Ocean Springs annexation was long overdue.  The city only had 11% of vacant land within the city limits which meant the city couldn’t grow, there was nowhere for the city to grow. This annexation will allow the city to pick up the sports complex, the high school, and create opportunities for more affordable housing with the city limits. The Aldermen and I believe that this is a smart investment in the growth of our city.  The Judge said the city is well equipped financially to provide resources and services to the new areas. We are currently in a transition period, and we are working with the county administration to make sure these residents and business owners will continue to be served. Our public safety officers started servicing the new areas on Sunday. Residents and Business owners in this area can expect to receive a mailer from the city explaining more about city services.”