The qualifying period for candidates to run for municipal office in 2025 is ongoing, and a dozen candidates have signed up in Meridian so far.

 

On the Democratic ticket, incumbent Mayor Jimmie Smith is running for a second term against former Mayor Percy Bland III. Bland, who served as mayor from 2013 to 2021, was unseated by Smith in the last municipal election cycle four years ago.

 

In Ward 3, LeQuincy Kimbrough and Sandra Faye Moore have also qualified on the Democratic ticket, as have incumbent Ward 4 Councilwoman Romande Walker and challenger Kim Houston, who is a former member of the City Council.

 

Rounding out the Democratic ticket are Ward 5 candidates Brandon Rue and Shirley Bolden Goodwin.

 

Running as Republicans are Ward 1 candidate Elliot Brewer and Elton Reed, Ward 3 candidate Beverly Henson and Ward 5 candidate Dustin Hill.

 

Candidates have until 5 p.m. Jan. 31 to submit their qualifying paperwork to the city clerk’s office.

 

Primary elections are set to be held April1, with a runoff date of April 22 if needed. The general election will be held June 3.