Poplar Springs Community Meeting

Today community members in the Poplar Springs met with city officials, law enforcement, and Meridian Public-School administration. The meeting was a chance for community members to voice their concerns about the area.

The meeting at Ross Collins was organized by concerned citizens of the Poplar Springs neighborhood.

Councilwoman of ward 5, Tyeasha Bell, says that the purpose of the meeting was to ensure the community that their safety is a concern.

“It was definitely important to get the community to come out”, said Council woman Bell. “It was a blessing because when you have all these people together in one room, especially with the residents. We can answer the questions and address concerns and do whatever it takes so, therefore, we can have a stronger community.”

The issue that was discussed most was truancy. Dr. Amy Carter, Meridian’s Public-School superintendent, says that the district is looking into combatting the issue.

“Some of the discussion was around truancy and violence in the community. What we’re trying to ensure that we do is make our parents aware. Our students are supposed to be in school each day and to be there on time”, stated Dr. Carter. “There are curfew laws and compulsory attendance laws that are in place when our students are not in school when they are supposed to be”

A community member spoke out in the meeting about how mentor groups could help in combatting the issue surrounding the youth. Pastor Gary Morris of Life Church believes the same.

“I am a big fan of these mentor groups but not only the groups, but the churches. If the men in our churches would take a lead in making impression on the young men of our church it would make a difference in our community.”

This was a community meeting for the Poplar Springs area but if you would like to start a neighborhood watch for the area you can contact Lt. Rita Jack.