New council president vows to work with mayor

By By Fredie Carmichael / staff writer
June 27, 2004
Meridian City Council President Bobby Smith said joint efforts among city and county officials, East Mississippi Business Development Corp., and state and federal officials is key to the city's success.
Smith, who represents Ward 5, said he met recently with representatives of the county and the EMBDC. He said he will also work on his relationship with Mayor John Robert Smith.
Councilman Smith and the mayor have criticized each another over issues like the city's paving project and delays in developing the Meridian/Lauderdale County I-20/59 Industrial Park.
Councilman Smith and other councilmen have charged that the mayor does not update them enough on city projects and does not communicate frequently with them.