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Mayoral Address to the City of Turrell

1/22/2026

Mayoral Address to the City of Turrell

January 20, 2026

Citizens of Turrell,

It is an honor to serve as your mayor and share my vision for our city’s future as we enter 2026. The City of Turrell enters this new year committed to strengthening our community through People, Pride, and Progress. This guiding principle will shape our leadership decisions, city operations, community engagement, and policy priorities over the next twelve months. Every department, official, and employee has a vital role in turning this vision into action.

Reflecting on my seven years in office, I am proud of the progress we have made together. When I first took office, Turrell faced significant financial challenges, with the General Fund balance at just $4,590 in 2018. Through strategic planning, grant writing, and collaboration with the City Council, we have grown the fund to $250,000 by the end of 2024, enabling us to invest in critical projects and services for our residents.

One of our key achievements has been revitalizing public safety in Turrell. Our Fire Department, which had been inactive for years, is now fully operational thanks to grants and funding for new equipment, fire trucks, and communication devices. We have also enhanced public safety by installing SkyCop cameras and upgrading outdoor warning sirens, ensuring our community is prepared for emergencies. Additionally, we secured over $4 million in grants for water and sewer projects, including the construction of a new water tower, water line upgrades, and wastewater pond repairs. These improvements have modernized our infrastructure and ensured reliable services for our residents.

We have also made strides in community engagement through initiatives such as the City of Turrell website, Nexbillpay for online water bill payments, and the Call-Em-All notification system, making communication and accessibility easier for everyone.

As we move forward together in 2026, the City of Turrell is guided by a simple but powerful commitment: People, Pride, and Progress. Together, we will move forward with purpose, professionalism, and accountability. Economic development is a priority, and we plan to attract new businesses such as grocery stores and retail shops to create jobs and provide essential services. We will support local entrepreneurs with resources, training, and incentives to help small business owners thrive. Community beautification efforts will focus on cleaning up abandoned properties, clearing vacant lots, and holding landowners accountable for property maintenance, creating a welcoming environment to attract businesses, residents, and visitors.

We will continue expanding our infrastructure by completing water and sewer upgrades, replacing the Chlorine Injector Station, and expanding water lines. Road repairs and maintenance will be prioritized to improve transportation and safety. We purchased a new garbage truck to enhance waste management services. Public safety will be further improved by expanding the Fire Department's training, equipment, and resources for volunteer firefighters, and by upgrading the Police Department's technology, vehicles, and equipment. 

Health and wellness initiatives will focus on expanding partnerships with organizations like Delta Health Mobile Med to provide accessible healthcare, dental, and pharmaceutical services. Community health programs will promote wellness through health screenings, fitness activities, and mental health resources. Strengthening communication through technology, town hall meetings, and outreach will remain a priority. We will foster unity by organizing additional community events and programs to celebrate diversity and enhance our residents' sense of belonging.

As your mayor, I am committed to leading with integrity, transparency, and dedication to Turrell's well-being. Together, through People, we serve. Through Pride, we lead. Through Progress, we grow. Together, we can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and build a city that future generations will be proud to call home. May God bless the citizens and the City of Turrell. Thank you.

Charles Webster Mayor