Housing issue emerges in Jackson mayoral race
Jackson Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. sees the need for more moderately priced homes, and his administration has been talking with a developer about a mid-priced subdivision for south Jackson.
Democratic challenger Frank Melton, on the other hand, says homes are falling apart in central Jackson and, if elected, he will work with local unions to rebuild neighborhoods in those areas.
Housing is one of the issues in this year’s contest between Johnson and Melton. Annell Smith also is on the ballot for the May 3 Democratic primary. The winner will face Republican Rick Whitlow in the June 7 general election.
A recently completed study shows demand for housing in Jackson is in the middle-class range of $150,000.
The study, commissioned by the MetroJackson Chamber of Commerce to help businesses better understand the Jackson housing market, said the most desirable neighborhoods are in south Jackson, Belhaven, Fondren and northeast Jackson.
The study found that as many as 10,400 households are looking for new residences in the city. Demand is for three- to four-bedroom homes with two to three bathrooms.
Clarion Ledger
4/24/5
