To maximize our resources and reduce the burden on local taxpayers, Mayor Tommy Reynolds has actively pursued state funding for essential projects. We are pleased to share that over the past five years, the state funding successfully secured for Water Valley has exceeded our total local property tax revenue.
Here is a breakdown of the investments brought into our community:
- 2022: $250,000 was secured for Civic Center restoration, alongside $500,000 for the Water Valley Electric Department to purchase two transformers. These provide essential backup power during catastrophic outages. Despite supply chain delays, both transformers are now fully installed as of 2025.
- 2023: An additional $225,000 was allocated for the continued restoration of the Civic/City Auditorium. Furthermore, $750,000 was secured for the Electric Department to facilitate broadband internet service and fund infrastructure improvements, including vital utility pole replacements.
- 2024: A $1.5 million legislative appropriation was dedicated specifically to Water Valley Electric Department infrastructure upgrades.
- 2025: While there was no direct state appropriation this year, city teams focused on the active installation and completion of previously funded infrastructure projects.
- 2026: We are seeing exceptional growth this year with a $1.1 million street improvement project, due to begin in two weeks, funded by internet sales tax revenue — a measure approved during Mayor Reynolds’ legislative tenure. We also received a $1.36 million state grant for sidewalk improvements. Finally, an additional $1.2 million was appropriated for electric service improvements. The Department of Finance and Administration confirmed today that these funds will be wire-transferred to the city within the next 30 days.
Proactive Infrastructure Maintenance
A strong infrastructure is vital, especially when facing severe weather. Using nearly $400,000 in legislatively approved funds, the city initiated a competitive bid process and hired Looks Great Services for electric right-of-way clearance across 41 miles of the grid.
This major clearing operation was completely finished in the summer and fall of 2025. While it could not eliminate all damage, completing this work prior to the recent ice storm successfully mitigated significant loss and helped our grid weather the event much more effectively.
We remain deeply grateful to our legislative partners and the people of Mississippi for their continued support. Water Valley is making steady, substantial progress, and we look forward to seeing these continued improvements benefit our community.
