The City of Meridian recently received Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi’s 2017 Healthy Hometown Award for municipalities with a population of 15,000 or more.

Every year, BCBS recognizes municipalities in three population categories, and each one receives $25,000. An overall winner receives a $50,000 prize for being Mississippi’s Healthiest Hometown. This year, Moss Point took home the top prize.

Also earning the distinction of Healthy Hometown were Hernando (5,001 to 14,999) and Mantachie (5,000 and fewer).

The award was discussed Tuesday at the city council meeting, and City Council President George Thomas, who represents Ward 1, said “we would not have received that award without Laura Carmichael,” the city’s coordinator of community development and cultural affairs.

Carmichael said winning the award was the result of listening to good advice and a lot of hard work.

“Every year they give out an award to a municipality that demonstrates a commitment to creating a healthier community,” Carmichael said. “This is the second year we applied. Last year they gave us feedback, so we took that to heart and really worked hard to make this happen.”

According to the BCBS website, Meridian is committed to health and wellness by:

– promoting farmers market, recreational areas, and community garden initiatives

– implementing Mayor Percy Bland’s Health and Fitness Council to foster a culture of good health

– Using a website and social media to keep residents up-to-date with recreational activities, fitness events and healthy nutrition seminars

The Meridian School District also adopted “health and wellness as one of its four overall strategic goals,” which BCBS noted as a demonstration of the district’s “strong commitment to healthy living.”

Carmichael said the city will use the cash award for city park improvements and the enhancement of the walking trails at Bonita Lakes. This, she said, will allow the city to “keep encouraging our healthy attitudes in Meridian.” BCBS representatives will travel to Meridian in the coming weeks to do a formal presentation to the city.

The council also discussed the fiscal year 2018 operating budget, which is expected to be completed by staff and submitted to council members on Friday.

Thomas said budget discussion will begin at next Tuesday’s work session. The final budget is expected to be finalized and approved by the end of the August, he said.