The Meridian City Council adopted a new, modern-looking design for the city at a meeting Tuesday.

Designed by Leading Edges Advertising, the design is an encircled “M” in Meridian blue with swaths meant to signify nearby the interstate and railroad.

“It has a distinct brand image for the city. It communicates various elements, like community our railroad and interstate,” Leading Edges Creative Director Mark Brentnall said. “But the best part of this logo is it is a large, modern ‘M’ for the City of Meridian. There were several elements that went into how it was developed.”

In other business, Meridian Housing Authority social worker Sheila Austin was appointed to the Meridian Public School Board. Austin has a degree in social work from Mississippi State University. 

The council also approved a grant application to provide police officers with bullet proof vests.

Concerning the Fourth of July celebration, the council authorized execution of a performance agreement. Steve Wilkerson and Friends will perform from 7-9 p.m. The group will perform “The Star Spangled Banner” and “America The Beautiful” during the fireworks presentation.

In other matters, the council approved an order authorizing a cooperative agreement with Lauderdale County for Sowashee Creek Trail. The asphalt trail goes from 29th to 22nd Avenue and is eight feet wide. The city will maintain the trail when it is completed.

“The city cuts the grass and changes the light bulbs,” McAlister said. Upkeep on this will be minimal.”

The council approved ad valorem tax exemptions for Community Outreach Church, Mississippi Action for Progress, Inc.,Mississippi State University of Agriculture & Applied Sciences, the Islamic Center of Mississippi and Alabama, Magnolia Steel Co., United Way and Van Zyverden Inc.

Attorney given okay to sue entity

The council authorized attorney Robert M. Dreyfus to pursue a claim against Campground Trailer Park for sewer bills for the last three years. The bills have reached over $200,000.

The city council approved a new contract to house inmates from the Kemper County. The transport fee goes from $20 to $30. 

Authorization of an equipment lease purchase agreement with Coca-Cola Bottling Co. for scoreboards and timers at the city’s ballfields was also approved by the council.