In accordance with Republican Conference rules and adherence to all transparency and accountability criteria, below is a list of Community Project Funding requests from the Office of Congressman Trent Kelly to be considered in the Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Legislation. Certification forms are included below, and the requirements for certification by Members can be found here.
Project Name: Tishomingo County, MS - Sheriff's Office Transportation & Technology Enhancement
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Tishomingo County Sheriff's Office
Recipient Address:1208 Bettydale Drive, Iuka, MS 38852
Request Explanation: This project would be a valuable use of taxpayer funds because firstly, it prioritizes the safety of our law enforcement officers, ensuring they have reliable transportation and modern equipment to effectively serve and protect our community. Secondly, it improves operational efficiency by reducing maintenance costs associated with outdated vehicles, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars in the long run. Lastly, it enhances public trust and confidence in law enforcement through increased transparency and accountability provided by modern dash cameras and vehicle computer systems. Overall, this investment directly benefits both officers and taxpayers alike, making it a prudent allocation of funds.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Prentiss County, MS- Sheriff’s Department Equipment Upgrade Project
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department
Recipient Address: 1901 E. Chambers Drive, Booneville, MS 38829
Request Explanation: This project would be a valuable use of taxpayer funds because by replacing outdated duty weapons and equipping each officer with a duty rifle, the project enhances law enforcement's ability to respond effectively to potential threats, particularly during active shooter situations, thereby ensuring citizen safety. Moreover, the procurement of new patrol vehicles minimizes maintenance costs associated with older models, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars in the long run. The introduction of an automated fingerprinting machine expedites the identification process, aiding in the swift apprehension of fugitives and enhancing public security. Additionally, upgrading computer systems reduces the risk of security breaches, safeguarding sensitive information and promoting operational efficiency. Overall, this initiative signifies a responsible and strategic investment in the community's safety and well-being, demonstrating a commitment to efficient resource utilization and effective law enforcement practices.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Tupelo, MS - Tupelo Police Department Technology Modernization
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Tupelo Police Department
Recipient Address: 400 North Front Street, Tupelo, MS 38804
Request Explanation: This project would be a valuable use of taxpayer funds because by establishing a Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC) in Tupelo constitutes a prudent and valuable use of taxpayer funds. By integrating advanced technologies such as license plate readers, extensive camera networks, and officer body/car cameras, the RTIC empowers law enforcement to monitor and respond to potential threats in real time. This proactive approach to public safety not only enhances the security of residents and visitors but also modernizes law enforcement practices to effectively address evolving security challenges. Furthermore, the collaborative effort between the City of Tupelo, the Tupelo Police Department, and the Tupelo Public School District reflects a community-wide commitment to enhancing safety and well-being. By extending security measures to schools and public spaces, the initiative fosters a collaborative approach to crime prevention. Moreover, the deployment of advanced surveillance technologies ensures accountability and transparency in law enforcement operations, instilling confidence among taxpayers that their funds are being used responsibly to uphold public safety and the rule of law.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Choctaw County- Fire Station/ EMS Building Construction
Requested Amount: $8,000,000
Intended Recipient: Choctaw County, MS - Board of Supervisors
Recipient Address: P. O. Box 250 - 22 East Quinn Street, Ackerman, MS 39735
Request Explanation: Choctaw County needs a combined fire station/EMS services building to serve the specialized needs of numerous critical regional electric power plants and associated facilities. In addition, locating the new Fire Station EMS building at the County’s Ecoplex would provide a centrally located building to allow the County to transition from numerous volunteer fire departments to a fulltime fire department. Furthermore, the building would be designed and built to standards to serve as a Community Safe Room for private employees at the Ecoplex and nearby residents during severe weather events. This Fire Station/EMS Building would substantially lower homeowners’ insurance rates.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Lee County, MS - In-Car Video/Automated License Plate Reader Modernization
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Lee County Sheriff's Department
Recipient Address: 510 Commerce Street, Tupelo, MS 38804
Request Explanation: This would be a good use of taxpayer funding due to the public safety nexus. The requested funding would be used to purchase a modern technology in-car video/audio camera system. This system would include wireless download capability through a LTE network so our officers can download video from anywhere. This will allow the officers to remain in the field to be a proactive deterrent to crime and be able to respond to calls for service in a timely manner. The system will be able to transmit real time video so department supervisors can see what is happening in the field without being there in person This will be good for officer safety and accountability. The system will have an integrated automatic license plate reader. Because of the LTE network connection, this license plate reader will receive real time updates from the National Crime Information Center for things like stolen vehicles, missing persons and wanted persons. Officers will also be able to immediately upload information on things like stolen vehicles or vehicles associated with a missing person. The quicker information is shared with other agencies the more successful we are in solving crimes and saving victims. All these capabilities will be tied together with an evidence program that will allow us to manage the information captured by the system. This project will allow us to increase our operational efficiency and transparency as we serve and protect the citizens of our community.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Town of Mathiston- Water System Improvements
Requested Amount: $10,000,000
Intended Recipient: Town of Mathiston- Water System Improvements
Recipient Address:41 Mathis Drive, Mathiston, MS, 39752
Request Explanation: The Town of Mathiston is in need of two new wells, a new 100,000-gallon elevated storage water tank, asbestos cement pipe replacement, and a water meter replacement with AMR meters. The Town went from having two water wells to only one and has no alternate water supply or source. The Town would be without water if the one remaining well failed. The Town is in critical need of at least two wells and an additional new well to keep up with the demand for a growing area. A new elevated tank would provide additional storage and would help improve the hydraulics in the area and provide alternate storage in the event the existing tank is out of service. researchers to engage in public-private partnerships with producers through post-harvest research that is not currently feasible.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Oxford, MS - Oxford Regional Water Resources Program
Requested Amount: $3,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Oxford, Mississippi
Recipient Address: 107 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS 38655
Request Explanation: The Oxford Regional Water Resources Program is a valuable use of taxpayer funds because it directly addresses critical water resource needs in the Lafayette-Oxford-University community. The City of Oxford has identified numerous needs in the Lafayette-Oxford-University (LOU) community based on current and projected demands for water resources improvements including water wells, water storage tanks, water transmission and distribution pipelines in order to protect the water quality through comprehensive watershed management. Aging infrastructure in the City System has resulted in repetitive failures, a lack of capacity, and a decline in water quality. The improvements are necessary to allow the Oxford to provide a reliable water supply, maintain healthy water quality, and increase health and safety of residents. Further, this project is appropriate for Federal funding due to its critical nature in ensuring critical access to sufficient and clean freshwater for its residents. In order to meet federal requirements for drinking water, federal support is needed health and safety of residents. Adequate infrastructure is vital to any community’s livability, potential for growth and economic competitiveness.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Pontotoc, MS - City of Pontotoc City Hall
Requested Amount: $8,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Pontotoc
Recipient Address:116 North Main Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863
Request Explanation: This project would be a valuable use of taxpayer funds because Pontotoc's burgeoning community necessitates a modern city hall. The current eighty-year-old gas station-turned-facility struggles with outdated infrastructure, hindering tech integration and risking security. With Pontotoc's growth, a new hall is vital to streamline operations, improve services, and enhance collaboration. Moreover, investing in a new hub signifies Pontotoc's dedication to advancement. This new space will boast a boardroom, offices, and a drive-through, facilitating essential city operations. By prioritizing functionality and accessibility, Pontotoc ensures it can effectively serve its residents, both now and in the future.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Alcorn County - Sheriff's Department: Project Technological Leap Program
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Alcorn County Sheriff's Office
Recipient Address: 2833 South Harper Road, Corinth, MS 38834
Request Explanation: This would be a good use of taxpayer funding due to the public safety nexus. Investing in "Project Technological Leap" is a prudent allocation of taxpayer funds, enhancing the Alcorn County Sheriff's Office's capability to respond efficiently and effectively to emergencies. The project upgrades essential equipment, including vehicles and technology, leading to improved public safety through faster response times and increased transparency in law enforcement operations. This initiative not only boosts community trust but also promises long-term cost savings by reducing maintenance expenses and adapting to modern challenges. Ultimately, the project represents an investment in the safety, efficiency, and future readiness of law enforcement in Alcorn County, ensuring the community remains a safe place to live and work.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: West Point, MS - West Point Crime Prevention Initiative
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of West Point, MS
Recipient Address: 580 Commerce Street, West Point, MS 39773
Request Explanation: This would be a good use of taxpayer funds because The West Point Crime Prevention Initiative allocates taxpayer funds toward enhancing public safety through technology upgrades. Aimed at fostering community trust and deterring crime, the initiative implements town-wide camera systems, school surveillance, and metal detectors. By proactively addressing crime rates and officer safety, it ensures a safer environment and strengthens the bond between law enforcement and residents. This strategic investment reflects a commitment to the well-being and security of the City of West Point, promoting a thriving and secure community.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Pontotoc County Emergency Management Operations Center Construction Project
Requested Amount: $6,000,000
Intended Recipient: County of Pontotoc, Mississippi
Recipient Address: 34 South Liberty Street, Pontotoc, MS 38863
Request Explanation: This would be a good use of taxpayer funds because the current Emergency Operations Center operates out of an outdated former jail that limits Pontotoc County’s ability to effectively manage emergencies. A new, hardened facility would provide the necessary space, security, and resources to improve coordination among response agencies and better protect the community. Investing in this project would strengthen the county’s disaster response capabilities and overall resiliency. Ultimately, it ensures a safer and more prepared future for all Pontotoc County residents.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: City of Saltillo Public Safety Project
Requested Amount:$2,000,000
Intended Recipient: City of Saltillo, MS
Recipient Address: 395 E Mobile St, Saltillo, MS 38866
Request Explanation: This project is a responsible use of taxpayer funds because it strengthens public safety, improves officer response times, and reduces long-term maintenance costs. Replacing aging vehicles and outdated equipment ensures that officers can perform their duties safely and effectively, which directly benefits the community. Investing now prevents costly repairs later and increases operational efficiency. Flexible funding will also allow the department to adapt to evolving needs, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and with maximum impact.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Yellow Creek Port Wharf Reconstruction Project
Requested Amount:$5,000,000
Intended Recipient: Yellow Creek State Inland Port Authority
Recipient Address: 43 County Road 370, Iuka MS 38852
Request Explanation: Reconstructing the Yellow Creek Port is a smart investment in Mississippi’s freight infrastructure, ensuring continued support for over 1,300 jobs and major regional employers. The current port structure, built in 1973, is dangerously deteriorated and must be rebuilt to safely handle a 50% surge in barge traffic. This project will not only preserve existing economic activity but also double the port’s capacity, positioning it for long-term growth and reliability.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: Chickasaw County Sheriff Department COPS Project
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Chickasaw County Board of Supervisors
Recipient Address: One Pinson Square, Houston MS 38851
Request Explanation: This grant will directly improve public safety for over 17,000 residents in Chickasaw County by replacing aging vehicles and equipment. It ensures deputies can respond quickly and effectively, especially in rural areas where reliable coverage is critical. Modern radios, surveillance tools, and patrol vehicles help prevent crime, support emergency response, and build trust between law enforcement and the community. Overall, this investment creates a safer environment for families, schools, and businesses by strengthening the county’s ability to protect and serve.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
Project Name: DeSoto County Sheriff’s Police Modernization Project
Requested Amount: $2,000,000
Intended Recipient: Desoto County Sheriff’s Office
Recipient Address: 3091 Industrial Dr. W, Hernando, MS 38632
Request Explanation: Investing in the DeSoto County Sheriff's Department’s equipment enhancement initiative is a responsible and strategic use of taxpayer dollars, directly contributing to the safety, security, and well-being of the community. By replacing outdated and mechanically unreliable assets, the Department ensures that law enforcement officers are equipped with reliable, modern tools necessary to respond effectively to emergencies, protect lives, and maintain public order. The armored vehicle will serve not just DeSoto County but surrounding counties as well, maximizing regional benefit and return on investment. Upgrading patrol vehicles, firearms, and communications technology improves operational efficiency, reduces maintenance costs associated with aging equipment, and enhances officer safety.
Additional Documents
Financial Disclosure Certification
