Harris for Gulfport: A More Researched, Resourced, and Responsible City
by Ronnie Matthew Harris
Gulfport, Mississippi, occupies a unique and strategic position that holds immense potential for growth, prosperity, and innovation. We envision a city that embraces its distinctive geographical and institutional advantages, including major military installations, renowned educational institutions, and a globally significant port. These assets, combined with a vibrant community, create the perfect foundation for transforming Gulfport into a forward-thinking city that is not only resilient but also prepared for the future. By leveraging technological advancements, fostering job creation, and drawing inspiration from successful cities around the world, Gulfport can evolve into a city that is more researched, resourced, and responsible—one that rises to meet both present and future challenges.
Strategic Location: A Hub for Military, Education, and Business
At the core of Gulfport's potential is its strategic location. The city is uniquely positioned within close proximity to major military installations, including the Army Reserve Station, the Naval Construction Battalion Center (SeaBee Base), and Keesler Air Force Base. These military installations play a vital role in not only the region's security but also its economic development. Gulfport benefits from a steady influx of military personnel, their families, and contractors, creating a stable and diverse population. Furthermore, these installations offer opportunities for collaboration, whether through workforce development, community outreach, or infrastructure improvements that can benefit both military and civilian residents.
In addition to its military presence, Gulfport is home to colleges and universities that are essential to fostering a well-educated, skilled workforce. The local extensions of major colleges and universities from throughout the state play a critical role in shaping the city's intellectual landscape. By strengthening partnerships between the military, educational institutions, and local businesses, Gulfport can become a center of innovation and education, attracting young talent and nurturing its existing residents' skills to meet the needs of a rapidly changing economy.
Gulfport's location is also a key asset when it comes to its thriving business community. The Port of Gulfport, one of the busiest ports in the Gulf Coast region, serves as a critical gateway for international trade and commerce. This globally-reaching port presents opportunities for economic growth, from increased cargo shipments to attracting new businesses seeking access to global markets. By capitalizing on the port’s capabilities and expanding infrastructure to support its growth, Gulfport can solidify its status as a hub for international business and commerce.
A Vision for a Researched, Resourced, and Responsible City
To make Gulfport a more researched, resourced, and responsible city, we must build upon the recent steps toward embracing innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technology to solve the city’s challenges. This includes modernizing city services, improving transportation networks, and fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages local innovation. By investing in smart city technologies, such as digital infrastructure, IoT (Internet of Things) solutions, and renewable energy sources, Gulfport can not only streamline services but also improve sustainability, efficiency, and quality of life for its residents.
Another key aspect of this vision is creating living-wage jobs that will fuel economic growth and improve the livelihoods of Gulfport’s residents. The city must become an incubator for new businesses, especially in high-tech industries, renewable energy, and double down on our commitment to healthcare. By promoting entrepreneurship and attracting high-wage employers, Gulfport can create a workforce that is not only economically secure but also positioned to thrive in an evolving global economy. Collaboration with military installations, educational institutions, and global businesses can create avenues for workforce development and help connect Gulfport’s residents to in-demand job opportunities.
To realize this vision, we must also emphasize the responsible use of resources. Gulfport must balance growth with environmental sustainability. This involves both promoting green building practices and ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of the region’s natural beauty. Gulfport's waterfront and coastal resources should be protected, while simultaneously improving public spaces and recreational areas that enhance the quality of life for residents. Sustainable development policies can attract environmentally-conscious businesses, tourists, and residents, further positioning Gulfport as a city of the future.
Learning from Other Cities: A Global Perspective
Looking beyond our city limits, there are numerous examples of cities worldwide that have successfully leveraged their unique strengths to create thriving, future-ready communities. Cities like Austin, Texas, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, have transformed through investments in technology and infrastructure, fostering both economic growth and innovation. Similarly, international cities such as Singapore and Barcelona have embraced smart city technology to enhance urban living, creating seamless, efficient systems for transportation, energy, and communication.
By learning from these examples, Gulfport can adopt best practices that align with its own strengths. For instance, the development of high-tech innovation hubs can be modeled after successful programs in Austin, attracting start-ups and creating high-quality jobs. Additionally, investing in smart infrastructure, such as energy-efficient systems and robust internet connectivity, can enhance the quality of life for residents while also drawing businesses that value these technologies.
Conclusion: Shaping Gulfport for the Future
We are committed to helping Gulfport realize its full potential by focusing on its strengths—its strategic location, vibrant community, and diverse assets. By fostering innovation, expanding educational and employment opportunities, and creating a sustainable and responsible city, we can ensure that Gulfport thrives in the 21st century. Our unique position, with its military installations, educational institutions, and global business opportunities, sets the stage for Gulfport to become a model city for others to follow. With the right vision and the collective efforts of our community, Gulfport can achieve a prosperous, forward-thinking future that benefits all residents.
Harris for Gulfport: A More Fair and Just City
by Ronnie Matthew Harris
The quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “The cities are gasping in polluted air and enduring contaminated water,” serves as a timeless reminder of the critical importance of addressing environmental waste, hazards, and inefficiencies in urban settings. Today, cities like Flint in Michigan, Jackson in Mississippi, and Newark in New Jersey, exemplify the ongoing struggle against environmental challenges, underscoring the need for local leadership and community-driven solutions to create sustainable and prosperous communities. By focusing on proactive waste management, mitigating environmental hazards, and fostering economic opportunity, cities can become healthier and more livable for all residents.
First and foremost, managing environmental waste is essential to safeguarding urban ecosystems and ensuring fiscal responsibility. Rapid urbanization and industrial growth often lead to a surge in waste generation, overwhelming local infrastructure. For instance, plastic waste and improper disposal of hazardous materials can clog waterways, pollute soil, and threaten property values. A city’s commitment to innovative recycling programs, waste reduction initiatives, and proper hazardous waste disposal can help mitigate these issues while creating jobs and boosting local economies. Investment in advanced waste treatment facilities and public-private partnerships can further empower residents and businesses to contribute to cleaner environments.
Take the example of cities that have embraced market-driven solutions to address waste. Policies that incentivize recycling, composting, and reducing single-use plastics have not only benefited the environment but also spurred economic growth. By adopting similar strategies, cities like Gulfport can drastically reduce their environmental footprints while fostering innovation and competitiveness among businesses.
Beyond waste management, addressing environmental hazards is vital to protecting public health and reducing healthcare costs. Urban areas often bear the brunt of industrial pollution, with factories, vehicle emissions, and poorly regulated waste disposal sites contributing to air and water contamination. The infamous water crisis in Flint, Michigan, where lead-tainted water endangered thousands of residents, illustrates the devastating consequences of neglecting infrastructure. These crises highlight the need for cities to prioritize infrastructure upgrades, enforce common sense pollution controls, and ensure access to clean water for all citizens.
Cities must also implement measures to reduce air pollution, which can have long-term economic and health impacts. For example, policies promoting clean energy technologies, expanding urban green spaces, and modernizing transportation systems can significantly improve air quality while attracting investment. Local initiatives like tree-planting campaigns and bike lanes not only enhance the quality of life but also demonstrate fiscal prudence by reducing energy consumption and healthcare expenses.
Equally important is fostering fairness in environmental stewardship to ensure all neighborhoods benefit from improved conditions. Historically, some communities have faced disproportionate exposure to pollution due to proximity to industrial areas or landfills, leading to health disparities and reduced property values. Addressing these imbalances requires deliberate efforts to promote equitable access to clean air and water while fostering economic revitalization in affected areas.
For example, in Newark, New Jersey, community organizations and local leaders have collaborated to address the placement of industrial facilities near residential areas. Through inclusive decision-making and strong leadership, cities can ensure that no community is unfairly burdened by environmental hazards. Additionally, policies that encourage businesses to adopt cleaner practices can create new economic opportunities while protecting public health.
Dr. King’s call for action resonates today as cities like Gulfport face mounting environmental challenges exacerbated by economic and population growth. By integrating resilience into urban planning—through measures such as flood defenses, renewable energy systems, and sustainable building practices—cities can better prepare for future challenges while maintaining fiscal responsibility and fostering economic growth.
Ultimately, creating cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous cities requires collaboration among government agencies, businesses, and citizens alike. Proactive waste management, robust environmental hazard mitigation, and a commitment to fairness are not just moral imperatives but practical necessities for sustainable urban development. As Dr. King’s words remind us, the health of our cities reflects the health of our society. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, we can ensure that future generations inherit cities that inspire opportunity rather than despair.
Harris for Gulfport: A More Attractive & Inclusive City
by Ronnie Matthew Harris
It should come as no surprise that public service is often a contact sport. Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best: “Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles.” And boy have we seen our share of human-induced obstacles to our work. As capable community learning and development practitioners, we have purchased homes, started businesses, and choose to raise our families here because we believe Gulfport, Mississippi is poised to transform into a more attractive and inclusive city. This transformation hinges on our collective commitment to fostering pride, engagement, and opportunity within our community. Drawing from decades of international development experience and observations, we want to share strategies that can help Gulfport realize its full potential.
Revitalizing Historic Neighborhoods
Our historic neighborhoods are the heart and soul of Gulfport. Revitalizing these areas isn’t just about restoring old buildings; it’s about reconnecting with our roots and creating spaces that reflect our shared history and culture. By investing in the restoration of vulnerable homes and historic places, however, we do in fact honor the past while building a prosperous future for long-standing remainers, recent returners, and future relocators. Development plans must respect the character of these neighborhoods and ensure that current residents are not displaced but empowered to thrive.
Enhanced, Trauma-Informed, Community Engagement
True inclusivity begins with listening to our people. Residents should be at the center of the decision-making processes that shape their neighborhoods. We need platforms for open dialogue—town halls, workshops, and interactive community forums, akin to the most recent, ‘first of its kind’ Community Input Meeting that I was fortunate to help organize—where voices were allowed to not only be heard and valued. Community engagement isn’t a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing commitment to partnership. The more residents feel included and empowered, the more they become active participants in Gulfport’s success.
Promoting Economic Development
Economic growth is a cornerstone of an attractive city. To make Gulfport a hub of opportunity, we must create more jobs that cater to a diverse workforce, including our children who have left (brain drain) but might want to return. Supporting local businesses, both big business and small, is key—they are the lifeblood of our economy. For example: From port to airport; From the Navy base due west to the Air Force base; From Highway 90 north to Highway 10, it is time we become more skillful at being pro-business, pro-residential neighborhood, and anti-status quo. We also need to foster entrepreneurship by continuing to provide resources and mentorship to aspiring business owners. Investing more in workforce development programs, as an example, can further equip our residents with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive market.
Investing in Education and Youth Programs
Our youth are the future of Gulfport. Investing in quality education, meaningful extracurricular activities, and the plethora of programs offered by non-profit organizations is essential to keeping families here. Schools should be well-funded and staffed with passionate educators. Community centers must become more active, offering mentorship programs, sports, arts activities, and entertainment that inspire and uplift our children and their families. Our City, for example, is an initiative I started, in partnership with both local and national partners, to do just that: activate both the Clower-Thornton Nature Trail and the Katie Booth Community Center by providing engaging outdoor programming (click here to see images of Our City and other ongoing programming). Because we believe when there is an intergenerational community of care and play between children, youth, adults, and the elderly, our city succeeds.
Improving Urban Planning, Design, and Implementation
Planning and Design go hand in hand in creating an inviting city. Addressing public works, dilapidated infrastructure, deteriorating public spaces, and finding ways to improve underutilized local engines of global commerce and trade is critical. Enhancing street lighting, maintaining streetscapes along public right-of-way and ensuring clear, walkable pathways are practical steps we can take immediately. It has long become time for Gulfport to meet the needs of all residents, with a focus on accessibility, including bike lanes and ADA compliant pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage safe, active transportation.
Embracing Cultural Diversity
Gulfport’s strength lies in its diversity. By celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that call this city home, we can foster a sense of unity and belonging. Inclusive cultural events, support for local artists, and representation in city planning are vital. We must ensure that every resident sees their culture and contributions reflected in Gulfport’s public spaces and initiatives. It is, in part, why we have committed so much of our own resources (time, talent, and money) to establish several local historic preservation projects, in hopes of seeing an entrepreneurial revival take place within our culturally rich neighborhoods.
Conclusion
Gulfport’s future is bright, but it requires a collective effort to realize its full potential. By revitalizing our historic neighborhoods, engaging our community, promoting economic growth, investing in our youth, improving safety and infrastructure, and embracing diversity, we can create a city that is not only attractive but also inclusive. Gulfport is our home; Our City, and together, we can make it a place where everyone feels valued and inspired to contribute to its success.
Harris for Gulfport: A More Streetwise, Safe and Sustainable City
by Ronnie Matthew Harris
Gulfport, Mississippi, as a vibrant coastal city, offers immense potential for growth and improvement by adopting strategies to become more streetwise, safe, and sustainable. Gulfport can enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors while fostering a resilient and inclusive urban environment. This will require actionable steps to achieve these goals through urban planning, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Enhancing Streetwise Infrastructure
A streetwise city prioritizes efficient, accessible, and safe transportation options. Gulfport’s strategic location along the Gulf Coast provides an opportunity to enhance its street network by investing in multimodal transportation. Developing a comprehensive network of bike lanes and pedestrian walkways will encourage non-motorized transit and improve public health. Integrating smart traffic management systems can reduce congestion and improve safety at intersections.
Public transportation improvements are essential for a streetwise city. Gulfport needs to strategically evaluate and expand its bus routes and schedules to cover underserved areas and introduce express services for those dependent on the bus as their primary transportation option. We are fortunate in Gulfport to have the Coast Transit Authority committed to reducing emissions and improving air quality with the electrifying of their fleet. Additionally, incorporating ride-sharing hubs and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations will support a modern, adaptable transit ecosystem.
Urban design also plays a critical role. Streetscaping initiatives, such as planting trees and adding lighting, not only beautify the city but also enhance safety and pedestrian comfort. Adopting complete street policies—designing roads to serve all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and transit riders—will ensure equitable and efficient use of public spaces.
Building a Safer Community
Safety is paramount for any thriving city. Gulfport can achieve this through community engagement, infrastructure improvements, and technological innovations. Establishing neighborhood groups and citizen advisory councils can empower locals to take an active role in public safety.
Technology can further enhance safety. Deploying data-driven strategies and using real-time crime mapping tools allow for swift and efficient responses to incidents. Additionally, Gulfport can continue to improve its emergency alert systems to keep residents informed during natural disasters or other emergencies.
Promoting pedestrian safety through enhanced crosswalks, traffic calming measures, and public awareness campaigns is vital. Installing speed bumps, roundabouts, and clearly marked bike lanes and crossings is likely to reduce accidents and encourage safer driving behavior. Furthermore, addressing issues such as adequate street lighting and maintaining clear visibility in public spaces can deter criminal activity and foster a sense of security.
Advancing Sustainability
Sustainability is critical for Gulfport, particularly given its vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters. Enhancing green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, permeable pavements, and urban forests, can mitigate flooding while improving water quality and air quality. Gulfport’s coastline provides an opportunity to incorporate living shorelines, which use natural materials to reduce erosion and protect habitats, which we are fortunate to have several knowledgeable actors working on daily for our region.
Promoting renewable energy adoption is another key step. Gulfport can invest in solar and wind energy projects, incentivize rooftop solar installations, and implement energy-efficient building codes. Offering tax incentives for businesses and residents adopting green practices will further accelerate the city’s sustainability goals.
Waste management improvements are also essential. Implementing comprehensive recycling programs and introducing composting initiatives can significantly reduce landfill waste. Public education campaigns can encourage responsible waste disposal and highlight the benefits of sustainability.
To ensure long-term environmental resilience, Gulfport should adopt climate action plans that address rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and resource conservation. Collaborating with local universities and research institutions such as MSU - Extension, Gulf Coast Community College, and USM programs locally can provide valuable insights and innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.
Engaging the Community
None of these initiatives can succeed without community buy-in. Gulfport must prioritize transparent governance and active citizen participation. Hosting town hall meetings, establishing online platforms for feedback, and partnering with local organizations can foster a sense of ownership among residents.
Education plays a pivotal role in driving change. Schools and community centers can introduce programs on environmental awareness, traffic safety, and civic responsibility. Celebrating achievements through events like sustainability fairs or community clean-up days can further inspire collective action.
Conclusion
Transforming Gulfport into a more streetwise, safe, and sustainable city requires a holistic approach that integrates infrastructure improvements, safety measures, and environmental strategies. By fostering collaboration between government, businesses, and residents, Gulfport can position itself as a model for other coastal cities striving for resilience and inclusivity. With careful planning and collective effort, Gulfport’s streets can become not just pathways but vibrant spaces that reflect the city’s commitment to a brighter, safer, and more sustainable future.
Harris for Gulfport: A more transparent city (participatory government)
by Ronnie Matthew Harris
We believe our city stands at a pivotal moment. We have a unique opportunity to enhance governance by embracing transparency and fostering participatory decision-making. By actively involving residents in shaping their community, we can build trust, ensure equitable development, and address the diverse needs of our citizens. Our vision for a more transparent Gulfport outlines a structured approach to participatory governance, emphasizing trauma-informed community engagement and actionable steps that bring meaningful change.
A Next Step: Normalizing Trauma-Informed Community Engagement, Participation, Input, and Action
To truly engage all citizens, we must first recognize and address the trauma many have experienced, particularly in underserved areas. Trauma-informed community engagement means acknowledging the emotional and psychological challenges faced by residents and creating safe environments for participation. This involves training city officials and community leaders to understand trauma’s impact, fostering empathetic communication, and ensuring public forums are welcoming and accessible. By normalizing these practices, we can empower residents to share their insights and take an active role in Gulfport’s development.
A First Step: The Citizens Participation Plan
Our journey toward participatory governance begins with the Citizens Participation Plan. This foundational document reflects Gulfport’s commitment to involving residents in decision-making processes for housing and urban development projects funded by HUD. As a movement, we will actively advocate for expanding the aforementioned plan, ensuring it reaches all corners of our city. Accessibility and outreach are crucial to making sure every voice—especially those from marginalized communities—is heard and valued. By reinforcing this plan, we lay the groundwork for inclusive governance.
A Second Step: The Community Input Plan
Building on trauma-informed engagement, the next step is implementing a comprehensive Community Input Plan. Together with two others, we helped create, fund, and facilitate Gulfport’s first-ever effort to provide residents with an open and transparent participatory process for the City’s 2024 CDBG & Home Funding. This initiative allowed citizens to actively engage in decision-making processes, directly influencing public policies and initiatives. Expanding this approach means providing surveys, hosting town hall meetings, conducting focus groups, and utilizing digital platforms for ongoing dialogue. For example, the city’s recent $1.2 million investment in low-income neighborhoods shows how community input can prioritize needs effectively. For further details, the City of Gulfport’s Action Plan is available here.
A Third Step: The Talk of an Action Plan
Once community input is gathered, the next phase is transparent discussions about crafting an Action Plan. As a movement, we will ensure these conversations are open and honest, with clear timelines and detailed explanations of how public input shapes proposed actions. This step builds trust, accountability, and a sense of shared purpose as we work together to move from talk to tangible results.
A Fourth Step: The Actual Action Plan
The final step is proposing a well-defined Action Plan that reflects the community’s priorities. This proposed plan will offer suggestions about the allocation of limited resources, set measurable goals, and establish timelines for achieving them. Gulfport’s efforts to improve infrastructure in low-income neighborhoods exemplify the kind of targeted action we need. As part of this process, we will advocate for regular updates to the public to maintain transparency and ensure accountability.
Conclusion
As a movement, we are committed to a vision of Gulfport where transparency and participatory governance are the norms. By normalizing trauma-informed engagement, reinforcing the Citizens Participation Plan, gathering robust community input, fostering open discussions, and implementing actionable plans, we can transform Gulfport into a city where every resident’s voice matters. Together, we can create a more inclusive and resilient Gulfport that meets the needs of all its citizens.