JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Jackson and Mississippi leaders are trying to keep the capital city’s water system financially stable.

Jackson Mayor John Horhn said federal money is stuck in Washington, D.C., because of the government shutdown. He told the House Capital City Revitalization Committee on October 23, 2025, that JXN Water has a big collection problem. He said the system is collecting about 70% of water bills and that shortfall also affects garbage fees.

“We’re down by about 30% in terms of the revenue that we expect to cover the cost of paying our sanitation fees,” the mayor said.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) gave Jackson $600 million for water repairs, $150 million for operations and $450 million for capital projects. Horhn said that first portion is one and more help is needed.

“Fifty-four million is being requested, and it’s in the continuing resolution. We’re in a shutdown,” he stated.

Horhn said JXN Water owes about $31 million to contractors and plans to pay that by December. He asked lawmakers to consider a new revenue source, possibly a higher sales tax or state help from the General Fund.

“That is how we get our system to a more healthy standpoint, so that when it’s time for the City of Jackson to come back and take its water system. We’re not taking it while we’re still underwater,” said State Rep. Justis Gibbs (D-District 72).

JXN Water released the following statement to WJTV 12 News about the meeting.

JXN Water is aware that the State House Committee on the Capital City has convened today to discuss the future of Jackson’s water system. While our leadership communicated in advance that we would be unavailable to attend, we appreciate that members of the Legislature are dedicating time to focus on Jackson’s water infrastructure and the long-term governance of this essential public service.

The creation of JXN Water itself was born out of a period when collaboration and coordination around solutions for Jackson’s water system were lacking. We firmly believe that constructive, informed partnership — across all levels of government — is the only path toward true sustainability and stability.

We welcome any dialogue aimed at strengthening the system for the people of Jackson and ensuring that future governance structures are grounded in transparency, accountability, and apolitical leadership. We stand ready to contribute our on-the-ground knowledge and technical understanding to any process that seeks lasting solutions for the city’s water and sewer systems.

JXN Water remains focused on what we do best: keeping the water flowing, improving reliability, and restoring trust in this critical service. We look forward to continued conversations at the appropriate time and in the appropriate forums to advance a shared vision for Jackson’s water future.
JXN Water