Issues
Local political issues are crucial as they impact our daily lives, and addressing these issues ensures that the needs and priorities of citizens are met, ultimately driving progress and improvement in the town.
Goals
Preserving the Magic of Oxford
Quality of Life
Growing up, visiting my grandmother in Oxford, Mississippi, I always felt a sense of magic in this small Southern town. Whether I was playing on the firetruck at Avent Park, strolling around the historic town square, or attending an event at the University of Mississippi, there was an undeniable charm and uniqueness to Oxford that captivated me.
Now, having lived in Oxford for the past 35 years, I can say with certainty that this feeling of magic has not faded. Oxford and the surrounding Lafayette County offer an exceptional quality of life, with excellent schools, a thriving university, and an incredible array of restaurants and cultural offerings – all while maintaining the warmth and character of a small town.
As Oxford continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial that the city’s leaders work in collaboration with their counterparts at the county and university levels to preserve the essence of what makes this place so special. The challenge lies in balancing progress and development with the preservation of Oxford’s small-town identity and close-knit community.
One of the keys to this delicate balance will be ensuring that the city’s infrastructure and public services can keep pace with the influx of new residents and visitors, without compromising the intimate, walkable feel that defines Oxford. This may require strategic investments in transportation, utilities, and other essential systems, all while maintaining a focus on sustainable growth and the preservation of the city’s historic charm.
Additionally, the continued partnership among the city, county, and university will be vital in shaping Oxford’s future. By working together to enhance educational opportunities, support the arts and cultural scene, and foster economic development, these entities can ensure that Oxford remains a vibrant, well-rounded community that offers something for everyone – from longtime residents to new arrivals.
As Oxford grows, it is my hope that the city’s leaders will remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the magic that has drawn so many of us to this special place. By striking the right balance between progress and preservation, Oxford can continue to thrive as a unique and beloved Southern destination, where the charm of the past coexists harmoniously with the promise of the future.
Smart Growth
Infrastructure
As Oxford continues to evolve and expand, its leaders are faced with the challenge of balancing the needs of its historic character with the demands of a modern, thriving city. By thoughtfully planning and investing in its transportation, water, and sewer systems, Oxford is positioning itself to meet the needs of both its residents and its visitors, now and in the years to come.
Oxford, Mississippi is a vibrant and growing city, with a rich history dating back almost 200 years. In recent years, the city has seen significant infrastructure improvements to keep pace with its rapid growth and development.
Since 2016, Oxford has added major new roadways, including the Pat Patterson Parkway in west Oxford and the Buddy East Parkway in the east. Additionally, the city has undertaken several road modifications and constructed new roundabouts to improve traffic flow. Currently, work is underway to extend the Pat Patterson Parkway to connect with Highway 7 North, further enhancing the city’s transportation network.
While these transportation upgrades have been necessary to address the city’s current needs, Oxford’s leaders recognize the importance of also planning for the future. As the mayor has noted, Oxford is a “small town with big city problems,” regularly hosting up to 90,000 people per day, and as many as 200,000 on big football weekends.
To support this influx of residents and visitors, Oxford has also invested heavily in its water and sewer infrastructure. In recent years, the city has upgraded its water treatment plants, installed new water tanks, and made improvements and extensions to its sewer system, including the addition of new lift stations. However, the mayor acknowledges that there is still much work to be done to ensure the city’s aging infrastructure can adequately serve its growing population.
Thriving Business Community
Economic Development
As we continue to grow and evolve, it is essential that we maintain the collaborative spirit that has been the hallmark of Oxford’s business community. By working together, our small businesses, large industries, and educational institutions can create a thriving economic ecosystem that benefits all who call Oxford home.
As a small business owner in Oxford, Mississippi, I can attest that small businesses are the backbone of our vibrant community. However, we have also been fortunate to attract and support a diverse range of industries, both large and small, that contribute to the overall economic vitality of our city.
For over 30 years, the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation (EDF) has played a crucial role in supporting local businesses and industries, as well as recruiting new companies to the area. Through their tireless efforts, the EDF has been instrumental in securing notable successes, such as the arrival of Winchester and the growth of Properly Tied, a locally grown clothing company.
In addition to supporting existing businesses, the EDF also collaborates closely with our educational institutions, including the University of Mississippi, to develop workforce training programs that ensure our local talent pool is equipped to meet the needs of both established and emerging industries. This collaborative approach has been essential in positioning Oxford as an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes.
As a long-time member of the EDF, serving for over two decades and currently as the vice chair, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the impact of this collaborative effort. In addition to my role on the EDF, I have also been a small business owner, giving me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurs in our community.
Looking to the future, the EDF is currently in the process of developing a strategic plan, working with a consultant to build upon the foundation of success that has been established over the past three decades. This forward-thinking approach will ensure that Oxford remains a vibrant and attractive destination for businesses, while preserving the small-town charm and entrepreneurial spirit that has long defined our community.
Together We Thrive
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