AGP Executive Report

Clean Water Court Ruling: A 5th U.S. Circuit Court decision in Sterling v. City of Jackson says there’s no constitutional right to clean water, after claims that Jackson officials exposed residents to lead-contaminated drinking water. CWD Deer Testing: Mississippi wildlife officials are asking hunters to drop off deer heads at 60 freezer locations for chronic wasting disease testing ahead of the 2026-27 season. Gas Prices Hit Coast Businesses: On the Mississippi Gulf Coast, rising fuel costs are squeezing local operators, with AAA pointing to record-high diesel prices tied to global conflicts. Local Public Safety: Jackson police continue investigating the hanging death of Tasia Fortune; a man charged in the case pleaded not guilty and bond was denied, with more arrests expected. School Threats: A 12-year-old was arrested in Columbia County, Fla., after threats tied to a Mississippi student’s messages about a mass shooting at Niblack Elementary. State Politics & Voting: Mississippi is dedicating Sept. 15, 2026 as Flonzie Brown-Wright Statewide Voter Registration Day. Economy Watch: Lauderdale County leaders project revenue growth and point to tourism and a new data center as early drivers.

Health Care & Politics: President Trump says the federal government will issue $500 Obamacare overcharge refunds to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, tied to alleged Biden-era exchange “user fees.” Elections: A federal appeals court order keeps Mississippi’s mail-ballot rule in place, allowing ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted if received within five business days. Public Safety: Jackson police say more arrests are coming in the death of Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old mother of four found hanging in Jackson; a man has been charged and investigators say the case is ongoing. Local Economy & Community: Goodwill’s rival Mega Thrift is set to open in a former Family Dollar site in Jackson, with more than 41,000 pounds of clothing and plans to launch by Oct. 1. Education & Growth: Ole Miss unveiled a $1.3B campus transformation with about 170 construction projects underway. Sports (Mississippi): Mississippi State QB Kamario Taylor is drawing praise after a strong start as the Bulldogs head into a tough SEC stretch.

Obamacare Refunds: President Trump says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, will get $500 refunds tied to alleged overcharges from Biden-era Obamacare “user fees.” Voting Rights: A federal appeals court order puts Mississippi’s mail-ballot receipt rules into effect, allowing ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted even if they arrive within the state’s five-day grace period. Water Rights Court Fight: The 5th Circuit ruled the Constitution doesn’t guarantee clean drinking water, a decision that directly affects Jackson-area lead-water claims and steers residents toward other legal routes. Public Safety: Jackson police say more arrests are expected in the death of Tasia Fortune, a Black mother of four found hanging from a tree; a suspect has been taken into custody. Mental Health: Mississippi’s Department of Mental Health marks September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, highlighting the 988 lifeline and statewide events. Local Business: A Jackson family’s lemonade pop-up is turning into a growing weekend business, with repeat customers and fresh fruit flavors. Community & Sports: Mississippi State QB Kamario Taylor is emerging as a breakout leader as the Bulldogs head into a tough SEC stretch.

Water, taxes, health care: In Kansas, a gubernatorial debate turned early on water policy and data-center approvals, with Ty Masterson pushing local control and tax cuts while Cindy Holscher pressed for stronger water protections and safeguards. Jackson-area justice: Mississippi police say more arrests are coming in the death of Tasia Fortune, a Black mother of four found hanging from a tree; authorities arrested Jarques Ratliff on a murder charge and say the case remains active. Politics in the Senate race: Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith suggested supporters of her opponent may have been involved in a 2023 shooting, drawing backlash from the challenger and NAACP leaders. Courts and clean water: A federal judge ruled the Constitution does not guarantee a right to safe drinking water, a decision already sparking reaction from Jackson-area residents. Healthcare refunds: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, will get $500 Obamacare refunds tied to federal exchange “user fees.” Local business: A new Chicken Salad Chick in Brandon plans free-food giveaways for early customers, with qualification details required. Community culture: The Mississippi Songwriters Festival returns Sept. 17-20 across the Gulf Coast, with a future home in Gautier on the horizon.

Health Care: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, will get $500 Obamacare refunds tied to alleged Biden-era “user fee” overcharges. Public Safety: Jackson police say more arrests are possible in the homicide investigation of Tasia Fortune, found hanging from a tree; Jarques Ratliff, 51, was arrested and officials say the case is still active. Local Government: Residents packed a redistricting hearing in Meridian, pushing lawmakers to keep current Mississippi maps and wait until after the 2030 Census, arguing changes could reduce Black voting power. Military & Industry: Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg was designated a permissive test range for unmanned aircraft and counter-drone tech, expanding private industry access. Community & Business: A new Chicken Salad Chick opens in Brandon with early-customer free-food giveaways, and Pine Bluff launched 1 Million Cups to connect local entrepreneurs. Nonprofits: New IRS-based rankings highlight big grant jumps for Mississippi groups, including Corinth’s Aiming For Healthy Families and Jackson’s Healthy Centers Healthy Kids.

Obamacare Refunds: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, will get $500 refunds for “overcharges” tied to federal Obamacare exchange user fees collected during the Biden years. Water Rights Fight: A federal appeals court upheld a ruling that Mississippi residents don’t have a constitutional right to clean drinking water, a decision that’s already sparked local op-eds and anger in Jackson. Jackson Water Costs: Jackson residents could face another 10% water-rate hike planned for spring 2027, following a nearly 12% increase that began in March 2026. Tasia Fortune Case: Jackson police arrested Jarques Ratliff in the Aug. 3 death of Tasia Fortune, with the medical examiner ruling the death a homicide; officials say the investigation remains active. Early Education: Proposed federal changes could gut Head Start rules, including class ratios and health services, though Mississippi’s state programs may shield some centers. Local Justice Help: A free expungement clinic in Jackson launched “Clean Slate Mississippi,” offering record-clearing guidance and voter resources. Ole Miss/LSU Weekend: Short-term rentals for the Ole Miss vs. LSU game weekend are spiking, with some listings topping $4,000. Mississippi Sports: Mississippi State QB Kamario Taylor is getting major hype ahead of a Week 2 road test at Minnesota.

Health Care Refunds: President Trump says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Mississippi, will get $500 ACA/“Obamacare” refund checks starting in October, tied to alleged Biden-era “user fee” overcharges. 9/11 Commemoration: Across the U.S., memorial services mark the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 with ceremonies, vigils, and readings of victims’ names; Trump plans to attend the Pentagon observance and JD Vance is expected at the National September 11 Memorial in New York. Local Tech & Privacy: A new Wisconsin citizens group, NoCams Muskego, filed suit seeking warrants before police can access Flock vehicle-location data, arguing warrantless tracking violates Fourth Amendment rights. Mississippi Business Giving: Oxford-based Spyder Moving and Storage is formalizing annual support for Move for Hunger and other community programs. Energy & Costs: Diesel prices jumped past $6 a gallon nationwide, with Mississippi averaging about $5.66. Defense Industry: Navy commands in the Gulf region are partnering with Greater New Orleans Inc. to connect with private companies, including work on underwater surveillance. Infrastructure Watch: Illinois is finally funding a long-delayed Chicago-to-Quad Cities passenger rail restart, though service is still years away.

Clean Water Fight in Court: A federal appeals court ruled Jackson residents don’t have a constitutional right to lead-free municipal drinking water or truthful information from officials, after claims the city knew lead was in the system. Mississippi Gulf Coast History: Pascagoula’s Lighthouse Park opened “The Story of Pascagoula” pathway with interpretive signs tracing nearly 300 years across nine eras. Choctaw Education Milestone: Choctaw Central’s new campus opened with a ribbon cutting and traditional ceremony, described as the largest Indigenous school district campus in Mississippi. NOAA Boost for Research: NOAA selected Mississippi State University to host the Northern Gulf Cooperative Institute (CINGA), with up to $100 million over five years for coastal resilience and forecasting. State Politics: U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith launched a website attacking opponent Scott Colom, alleging ties and record issues. Public Safety & Recovery: MEMA will close a Hancock County disaster service center for Tropical Storm Arthur after registrations dropped, while other centers stay open. Workforce & Industry: HII highlighted workforce training at Delta Fest 2026, pointing to shipbuilding apprenticeships and academy programs. Health Care Refunds: Trump announced $500 Obamacare rebate checks for nearly 1 million Americans, with payments starting in October. Local Utilities: Brookhaven approved water and sewer rate increases starting Oct. 1. Business Growth: General Atomics announced $87 million investment in Mississippi, adding 125 jobs.

Mississippi Tech & Workforce: A new report highlights Mississippi’s tech sector growth as the state pushes to keep and train skilled workers, aiming to attract more investment. Local Housing & HUD Numbers: Leake County ranks 45th in Mississippi for project-based Section 8 assisted units (81) in 2025, while Hinds County leads the state with 2,780; separate rankings show where Housing Choice Vouchers and other HUD programs are concentrated. Banking Spotlight: Renasant says it’s bridging big-bank tech with community banking by pairing digital tools with local relationships. Immigration Detention Shift: ICE is dropping plans to convert some warehouse detention sites as lawsuits mount, including reversals tied to major price tags. AI & Teens: A new report finds more kids and young adults are using AI for problem-solving, raising concerns about privacy and safety. Mississippi Lottery Win: A Gulfport man won $1 million on a Mississippi Lottery scratch-off, with multiple top prizes still unclaimed. Community & Culture: Mississippi’s tech and local events continue to draw attention, from regional partnerships to fall community happenings. National Context: A poll marks Sept. 11’s lasting impact as the 25th anniversary nears.

HUD Housing Numbers: Harrison County is No. 2 in Mississippi for total HUD-assisted units in 2025 (5,927), while Hinds County leads the state for Housing Choice Vouchers (4,841) and Harrison is second (4,739). Jackson County shows up as a major player too, ranking 4th statewide for total HUD-assisted units (2,786) and 3rd for Housing Choice Vouchers (2,431). Local Budgeting: Columbus City Council is still finalizing its FY 2027 budget, with Mayor Stephen Jones aiming to avoid tax hikes while weighing new positions, equipment, and a proposed 3% pay increase for city workers. Agriculture Politics: Mississippi Rep. Vince Mangold announced he’s running for state commissioner of agriculture and commerce, pitching support for next-gen farmers and opposition to foreign purchases of Mississippi farmland. Public Safety Funding: The state’s Fire Rebate Fund is sending money for firefighter training and equipment to multiple Mississippi counties and towns, including Kosciusko and Philadelphia (about $52,000 each). Trade Impact: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called Trump’s Canada trade moves “idiotic,” citing sharp hits to bourbon exports and jobs.

Mississippi Court Fight Over Water: A federal appeals ruling keeps alive a major dispute over whether Jackson-area residents have a constitutional right to clean drinking water, with the latest decision rejecting that claim. Meta Settlement Spending: Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch is mapping how the state’s $189 million Meta settlement can be used, raising questions about whether the money will target children’s mental health. Data Centers and Taxes: Mississippi’s neighbors are moving to rein in data-center tax breaks, and the debate is spilling into how states track costs and protect ratepayers. Catfish Industry Pressure: Rising costs and foreign competition are threatening the future of the catfish business, a direct hit to rural economies tied to processing and farming. Local Community Input: Kosciusko residents are invited to weigh in on tree-planting plans for Jason Niles Park and Lower Elementary as part of a USDA-funded forestry effort. Health Access After Abortion Bans: New reporting highlights a spike in ectopic pregnancy deaths, underscoring how delays in care can become deadly where abortion is restricted. 9/11 Remembrance Photos: Mississippi outlets shared photos from the Sept. 11 attacks and the weeks that followed, keeping local history in view.

Local Politics: Mississippi Sen. Daniel Sparks says if elected state auditor he’ll investigate contracts, framing the race as a fight for accountability in state spending. Public Safety: Claiborne County Deputy Terrian Bailey was killed while dispersing a crowd after gunshots were directed toward people at a convenience store; the FBI is offering a $25,000 reward. Courts & Water: A federal appeals court upheld dismissal of Jackson residents’ lead-water lawsuit, ruling there’s no constitutional right to clean drinking water. State Government & Food Aid: Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith highlighted USDA plans to buy up to $20 million in surplus wild-caught shrimp for schools and food banks. Business & Jobs: Target plans eight new store openings this fall, including in Mississippi, with more than 2,000 jobs expected. Local Development: Madison County gave final approval to a $120 million conference center and Dolce by Wyndham hotel in Ridgeland/Prado Vista. Community & Culture: The 83rd National Folk Festival’s Mississippi Folklife Area program was unveiled for Nov. 13-15 in downtown Jackson. Sports: CFP is set to discuss expanding the playoff to 24 teams with ESPN. Disaster Relief: FEMA announced more than $13 million for Mississippi recovery and mitigation projects.

Local Politics: Mississippi lawmakers are holding public hearings across the state on possible redistricting changes after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on race and maps, with the final hearing set for Oct. 1 in Jackson. Public Safety: Claiborne County is mourning Deputy Terrian Bailey, killed while dispersing a crowd after a festival in Hermanville; the FBI is offering up to a $25,000 reward. Crime: Gulfport police say a Harrison County man, Samuel Jermone Andrews, faces first-degree murder charges after an AT&T shooting killed an employee and a customer. Education: Applications are open for the 2027 Mississippi Governor’s School at Mississippi University for Women, a tuition-free two-week residential honors program. Business/Infrastructure: Mark Cuban is pushing towns to demand enforceable protections before approving their first data center, including limits on water use and noise. Economy/Weather: Grain futures are mostly higher overnight, while Labor Day travel and Gulf Coast tourism reports point to busy weekend crowds.

Jackson Water Rights Fight: A Fifth Circuit ruling says the U.S. Constitution doesn’t guarantee a right to clean drinking water, dealing a blow to Jackson residents suing over lead contamination. Local Public Safety: Gulfport police say a Harrison County man is charged after an AT&T store shooting killed two people and he was taken into custody. Violence in Claiborne County: A sheriff’s deputy was killed while trying to disperse a crowd at a convenience store; a woman was also shot and is expected to recover. Mississippi Sports: Mississippi State QB Kamario Taylor’s viral 70-yard TD helped fuel attention as the Bulldogs prep for Minnesota, while Jackson State freshmen Ryan Achau and Sya Bolden earned SWAC weekly honors. Coast Economy: Labor Day crowds kept Bay St. Louis beaches and bars busy, with businesses looking ahead to fall visitors. Health & Policy: A new analysis finds alcohol-attributable cancer deaths in the U.S. have doubled since 1990. Business/Industry: Lawsuits over data center noise continue to target Microsoft and xAI, including claims tied to Mississippi.

Gas Prices: AAA says Labor Day gasoline is at record highs, with the national average around $4.15 on Sept. 5—about $1 higher than a year ago—driven by global fuel disruptions. Food Safety: Walmart shoppers in 16 states are being warned about a widened recall of Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend due to possible E. coli O157:H28 contamination. Mississippi Politics: Mississippi lawmakers are taking public input on possible redistricting after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, with voting rights organizers canvassing ahead of hearings in Jackson. Courts/Water: A federal appeals court dealt a blow to Jackson residents’ lead-in-water lawsuit, ruling the Constitution doesn’t guarantee a right to clean drinking water. Workforce/Training: Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is joining a Lowe’s Foundation skilled-trades push to expand training and connect workers with employers. Local Crime: A statewide anti-skimming operation recovered three skimming devices and says it’s targeting SNAP/EBT fraud. Sports (SEC): Ole Miss edged Louisville 41-38 in the Music City Kickoff, while LSU routed Clemson 41-0 in Week 1 action.

Clean Water Court Ruling: A federal appeals court dealt Jackson residents a blow in the long-running lead-in-water fight, ruling the U.S. Constitution doesn’t guarantee a right to clean drinking water or “truthful information” during a public health crisis. Statewide Fraud Crackdown: Mississippi AG Lynn Fitch says “Operation Stronghold” wrapped up after recovering three credit-card skimmers, inspecting 421 businesses and nearly 2,150 point-of-sale terminals, with skimmer totals reaching 56 statewide in 2026. Local Jobs & Training: Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is joining Lowe’s Foundation’s skilled-trades push, while Taylor Pippins (Alabama A&M) completed a second Army SPARK research fellowship in robotics at a Vicksburg lab. Mississippi Crime & Scams: BBB Scam Tracker data puts Jackson among the state’s higher-report cities for July, and a separate roundup highlights ongoing fraud losses nationwide. Mississippi Politics: Rep. Michael Guest shared updates on industry expansion, border-security work, and community pharmacy outreach. Heat & Holiday Closures: Labor Day brings closures across Mississippi, plus continued dangerous heat advisories in the region.