Jim Brock / The Meridian StarThe Meridian Housing Authority on Friday rededicated its newest facility at Oakland Heights Garden to the late Sgt. Eddie Lee Griffin Jr., of the Meridian Police Department.

The Meridian Housing Authority on Friday rededicated its newest facility at Oakland Heights Garden to the late Sgt. Eddie Lee Griffin Jr., of the Meridian Police Department.

Griffin was one of the city’s first African-American police officers and MHA’s first security advisor.

In 1990, after Griffin’s death, Oakland Heights residents voted to dedicate their first community center for its senior citizens in his honor, according to an MHA news release. Nearly 30 years later, the new building will also bear his name.

Griffin was also a resident in MHA’s affordable housing community for a number of years before achieving success in law enforcement.

“The new Eddie Lee Griffin Jr. Multi-Purpose Center will serve as a neighborhood watch meeting place for the community’s senior citizen population as well as a hub for hosting various events and activities in Oakland Height’s underserved community,” the news release stated.

Meridian Mayor Percy Bland, who was present at the dedication ceremony, said he was there to “show respect and honor someone who served their community well.”

“Mr. Griffin had a big impact to those he served, and his family was here today, so we’re very proud,” the mayor said.