JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson Mayor John Horhn announced the formation of a new Housing Task Force, which will be dedicated to making sure every residents has access to safe, reliable and sanitary housing.

The mayor said the initiative is a response to ongoing concerns about some landlords failing to maintain basic utilities and standards in apartment complexes across the city.

“We’re committed to making sure residents in Jackson have access to water and a safe home, and we’re taking action to support them and encourage all landlords to do right by their tenants,” said Horhn. “This task force is about making sure every Jacksonian, no matter where they live, can count on having a place that’s healthy and secure. We’re here to listen and take action.”

Officials said the Task Force will evaluate housing policies, hold landlords accountable for neglect and protect tenants through hands-on oversight and community outreach.

“Most landlords do the right thing, but the ones who don’t put all families at risk. We owe it to our neighbors to step up enforcement and keep everyone safe,” said Rebekah Staples, a member of the Task Force.

Housing Task Force Members:

• Brian Burns
• Theresa Crisler
• Robert Ireland
• Johnnie Patton
• Emma Redding
• Rebekah Staples
• Stuart Tiery
• Earnest Ward
• Jennifer Welch
• JXN Water Designee

Residents are encouraged to share their experiences and concerns about housing to the Task Force by contacting 311 or 601-960-1111.