JACKSON, Miss. ( WJTV ) – A select Legislative committee will discuss the Jackson-metro area’s biggest issues later this summer.

House Speaker Jason White (R-Miss.) has assembled a 19-member bipartisan committee that’s tasked with revitalizing Jackson and the surrounding metro. Representatives Shanda Yates (I-District 64) and Clay Mansell (R-District 56) will serve as co-chairs.

The committee will start will a focus on water, crime and rundown properties.

“What is the state’s involvement? How does the state help once the federal receiver, once (Ted) Henifin’s position ends? Also looking at how we can reduce crime and homelessness within the capital city, and also looking at how to address blighted property. I’d like to have members of the City Council present when we start talking about the city’s water system. When we start talking about crime and homelessness, I’d obviously like to have members of JPD present. I think it all has to be a concerted effort,” said Yates.

Rep. Chris Bell (D-District 65) is also part of the committee. He plans to advocate for more economic opportunities for his constituents. Bell is looking forward to the committee’s work, but he’s quick to bring up past Legislative efforts to address some of these issues coming from non-Jackson lawmakers.

“The mindset of previous leaders and members of the Legislature who have made it a point to suggest a takeover of Jackson from our water system, the airport. I’m coming in with a clean, open mind. I do see it as a meaningful conversation,” he said.

“I don’t think that the state can or should be responsible for fixing any one city, but I do think the state has some level of responsibility for the capital city,” said Yates.

Hearings on these issues are expected to be held late this summer or early this fall.

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