Author: Mick Wright

Supporting first responders

Last year, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office partnered with county commissioners to reserve a portion of their budget for public safety initiatives in each district.

For District 3, this program covered the cost of emergency equipment needed in the event of severe weather episodes and resulting power outages, such as the storm that disrupted 120,000 MLGW customers one year ago.

The resolution I sponsored was approved back in October, but the equipment has just recently been delivered.

I’m thankful for everyone who came together to put this technology in place — Sheriff Bonner, the Board of Commissioners, Mayor Harris, Mayor Parsons, Chief Cox, Chief Gately, and the many members of their teams who made it happen. This will result in lives saved.

Signs and seasons

Just a quick programming note: I’ve fallen behind with the newsletter, which typically hits inboxes around the first of the month. But with so much happening, I don’t want to skip an issue. Hopefully, you’ll hear from me again next week.

It seems so long ago now, but it was only April 8 when we enjoyed the solar eclipse. Alison and I rented a cabin in Arkansas so we could fully experience the “path of totality.” It was worth the drive. It won’t happen again in the U.S. until 2044.

Leadership in action

I enjoyed visiting with the Leadership Bartlett class of 2024, which held their county government day on March 6. This is a great group of current and future leaders who are putting in the work to learn more about our community.

Leadership programs are an excellent way to learn, get plugged in, make new friends and find ways to serve. Get involved with the one in your area; you won’t regret it.

History in the making

It was my pleasure to recognize Monique Williams as the Black History Month honoree for District 3. She is the first African American to serve on the board of Bartlett Mayor and Aldermen; a serial entrepreneur; and a servant leader in our community.

Congrats, Chef Mo!

A show of force

We recently had another visit from state officials focused on public safety in Memphis. They proposed a new state constitutional amendment allowing judges to deny bail for a wider variety of violent crimes.

House Speaker Cameron Sexton and Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson made the announcement at a news conference at Memphis City Hall assembled by Mayor Paul Young, Senator Brent Taylor and other members of the Shelby County state delegation from both parties.

This is one of many proposals state leaders are considering. Their concern for Shelby County is appreciated.