News Flash

Neighborhood meeting planned on Monday, Sept. 20 to discuss W. Washington Avenue two-way conversion

City Councilmember Laura Dwyer Schlecte is holding a special neighborhood meeting for Jackson’s Fourth Ward on Monday, Sept. 20^th at 6:30 p.m.

Property owners on W. Washington Avenue between S. Brown Street and S. West Avenue are invited to attend the meet...

New pedestrian trail in Ella Sharp Park celebrated with ribbon cutting event

Jackson is celebrating the official opening of a new trail that increases pedestrian access and creates safe walks to school! A ribbon cutting event for the new Ella Sharp Park Trail was held Sept. 17, and was attended by residents, City of Jackson offici...

DPW collecting household trash, yard waste at City Cleanup Event on Saturday, Sept. 18

Jackson residents looking to get rid of yard waste and trash have an upcoming opportunity. The City of Jackson is holding a City Cleanup Event on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Department of Public Works (DPW) Operations Center near Downt...

New affordable housing complex planned in Downtown Jackson

A new affordable apartment complex is one step closer to taking shape in Downtown Jackson. At their Tuesday, Sept. 14 meeting, the Jackson City Council unanimously voted to approve an ordinance that intends to assist in the development of the The Blacksto...

Jackson City Council Sept. 14, 2021 Meeting

Here are highlights of what happened at the Jackson City Council meeting on Sept. 14:

-The City Council voted down the first reading of an Aggressive Solicitation Ordinance in a 5 to 2 vote. The proposed ordinance intended to curb panhandling in Jackson by...

City Councilmember Will Forgrave holding neighborhood meeting for Sixth Ward on Wednesday, Sept. 15

Residents in Jackson’s Sixth Ward have an upcoming opportunity to meet with their City Council representative and learn the latest news from their neighborhood. City Councilmember Will Forgrave is holding a neighborhood meeting for the Sixth War...

City reveals two design concepts for official City Seal Redesign

Jackson residents are getting their first looks at design concepts for a new City Seal. The City of Jackson is releasing two designs ahead of the Tuesday, Sept. 14 City Council meeting, where they will be presented to City Councilmembers and the community...

New Active Aging Program launches for adult residents

With local senior residents becoming more active and engaged, the City of Jackson is taking its senior programming in a new direction. On Tuesday, Sept. 7, the Jackson Recreation Department is launching its new Active Aging Program. Lead by Active Aging C...

City of Jackson working with Anchor Initiative to redevelop the Hayes Hotel property

The City of Jackson is working with the Anchor Initiative on a new effort to get the Hayes Hotel property redeveloped. The 10 story former hotel building has been vacant since the City took over ownership in 2004. It was previously used as office...

Jackson Police Dept. launches new recruit program

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) is looking to overcome recruitment difficulties by removing barriers and making an investment in the future. This month, JPD is sending police recruits Antoinette Lewis and Nikolas Rincon to the Mid-Michigan Police Acad...

$1.5 million going to gun violence prevention program in Jackson

Efforts to reduce gun violence in the City of Jackson are getting a big boost after the Jackson City Council unanimously voted to allocate $1.5 million to a Group Violence Intervention (GVI) program. The allocation of federal funds available to the City f...

Jackson welcomes Sergio Garcia as new Deputy Chief of Police

After rising the ranks of the Jackson Police Department over the past 24 years, Sergio Garcia is ready to be the department’s second in command. Garcia was recently promoted to the role of Deputy Chief, a position that had been vacant since 2017. ...

Work to replace traffic signals on N. Wisner Street underway

Work is beginning to replace outdated traffic signals on N. Wisner Street at the Argyle, North and Ganson intersections. Construction crews started efforts to replace the signals on Monday, Aug. 16. The first phase of the project has construction crews do...

Jackson City Council Aug. 17, 2021 Meeting

Here are highlights from the Tuesday, Aug. 17 Jackson City Council meeting:

-The Jackson City Council unanimously approved a proposal to allocate $1.5 million in federal funds over the next 5 years to a new program that aims to reduce gun violence in the c...

Railroad crossings in Jackson shutting down for maintenance

Amtrak has scheduled maintenance work where streets across the railroad at the following locations:

1)         Blackstone Street between Glick Highway and Trail Street;

2)         Stewa...

W. Franklin Street closing to traffic for home construction

Starting Monday, Aug. 16, W. Franklin Street will be closed to through traffic between S. Jackson and S. Mechanic streets.  The street closure is for the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Jackson Blitz Build event, which will construct two homes. T...

Have your say on what the new official City Seal will look like

Jackson residents have an upcoming opportunity to weigh in on what the new City Seal should look like. The Jackson Public Arts Commission (JPAC) is holding a meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 17 to get input from the community on the seal’s redesign. Ideas from th...

S. West Ave. closed to traffic for construction

Beginning Monday, August 9, 2021, South West Avenue will be closed to through traffic between Kibby Road and High Street. This street closure is for sewer replacement at the intersection of South West Avenue and Douglas Street. The work to reconstruct the...

Recreation centers open to residents without power and water on Friday, Aug. 13

The City of Jackson is opening its two recreation centers to residents who do not have power or water following this week’s severe weather. The Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center and the Boos Recreation Center will both be open on Friday, ...

Jackson City Council Aug. 10 meeting canceled, rescheduled to Aug. 17

The Jackson City Council meeting planned for tonight has been canceled. Officials canceled the meeting because multiple City Councilmember absences means there would not be enough members present to conduct City business. The meeting has been rescheduled ...

New mask requirement for all City of Jackson facilities

With COVID-19 cases increasing, the City of Jackson is announcing a new mask requirement for all City facilities to help protect community health. Starting Tuesday, Aug. 10, masks will be required for residents to visit City Hall and other facilities, inc...

MEETING UPDATE: Ward 2 neighborhood meeting canceled

Election results for Aug. 3 Mayoral Primary Election

A primary election was held on Tuesday, Aug. 3 to narrow down candidates for the Mayoral race. Daniel Mahoney and John Wilson were the top two vote getters and will advance to the Nov. 2 General Election for Mayor of Jackson. Full results are provided thr...

New resident group formed to volunteer in Jackson parks

NEWS RELEASE FROM PEOPLE FOR THE PARKS AND TRAILS: 

A new volunteer group in Jackson is looking for residents who want to make a difference in the city's parks. People for the Parks and Trails (abbreviated to PPT) was recently founded by ...

Jackson moving forward with redesigning official City Seal

The City of Jackson could soon have a new official City Seal. The Jackson Public Arts Commission (JPAC) is now accepting proposals from design companies on a new look for the City Seal. An updated design is sought by the City to present a seal that is mor...

MEETING UPDATE: July 27 community meeting canceled

MEETING UPDATE: The community meeting happening planned for Tuesday, July 27 to discuss federal COVID-19 relief funds has been canceled. This meeting will be rescheduled at a later date.

______________________________________________________________

With $...

Jackson City Council July 13 Meeting

The Jackson City Council held its first in-person meeting at City Hall since Feb. 2020 on July 13. The lifting of the City's COVID-19 Local State of Emergency on July 1 is allowing in-person meetings again.  Here are highlights of what w...

City convening Construction Board of Appeals

The City of Jackson is convening a Construction Board of Appeals and is looking for licensed tradespeople to apply. This board meets when needed to review City Code of Ordinances interpretations. Officials are looking to fill seven positions on the board....

July 6th community meeting on using COVID-19 relief funds

A virtual version of the July 6 community meeting on using COVID-19 relief funds was presented on the City website. A recording of the meeting is available on this page. 

Learn more about these community meetings and the COVID-19 relief funds from...

In-person City Council meetings resume

With the ending of the City's COVID-19 Local State of Emergency, in-person meetings of the Jackson City Council are resuming. The City Council will hold its first in-person meeting since Feb. 2020 in the City Council Chambers of Jackson City Hall...

Woof! Jackson's first dog park now open!

Jackson residents and their four-legged furry friends are celebrating the official opening of the City’s first dog park! A ribbon cutting event for Betty’s Dog Park held on Thursday, July 1 welcomed this pooch paradise into the communi...

COVID-19 Local State of Emergency ending in Jackson on Thursday, July 1

With rapidly dropping cases and a successful vaccine roll-out, the City of Jackson’s COVID-19 Local State of Emergency is coming to an end. By order of Mayor Derek Dobies, the emergency declaration will officially end at 12:00 a.m. on Thursday, ...

Councilmember Dancy holding neighborhood meeting for Jackson's Second Ward

With decreasing COVID-19 cases and the lifting of statewide restrictions, Jackson is moving back to in-person neighborhood meetings. City Councilmember Freddie Dancy is holding a neighborhood meeting for Jackson’s Second Ward at the Boos Recreat...

Jackson Police Dept. lobby closing to public during front entrance construction

On Monday, June 28, 2021, the Jackson Police Department will begin demolition and construction of a new public entry into their building on E. Washington Avenue. During this construction period, the Police Department’s main lobby will be closed ...

Explanation of Nixon Water Park closure in summer 2021

The City of Jackson has been getting questions from residents about why the Nixon Water Park is closed again this summer. It mostly comes down to timing and COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. This past spring, a time when staff spend time prepping the water ...

Jackson has most energy-efficient buildings for a small city in nation!

 Jackson continues to be Michigan’s clean energy capital after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it has more ENERGY STAR-certified buildings than any small city in the nation! The ranking confirms Jackson&rsqu...

Summer Newsletter Now Available!

The Summer 2021 edition of the City of Jackson newsletter is now available! The seasonal newsletter is mailed to every address in the City and is available for pick-up on the First Floor of Jackson City Hall. It can also be viewed online. 

• Summer ...

Three Jackson firefighters retire after 25 years of service

2020 Water Quality Report being mailed to homes

The 2020 Water Quality Report is now appearing in mailboxes all over Jackson. 

The annual report, which is mandated by the State of Michigan, informs residents of how water is sourced, treated, and tested by the City of Jackson Water Department. &...

Jackson City Council June 8 Meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Here are highlights from the meeting: 

• The City of Jackson will now apply for a $3 million loan from the State of Michigan to pay for lead service line replacements followin...

Hearing planned as City seeks $3 million from State for lead service line replacements

The City of Jackson could be getting a boost from the State of Michigan for its lead water service line replacement program. The City is applying for a $3 million loan from the State to partially cover the $120 million cost of replacing Jackson’s 11,339 l...

New community gardens bringing fresh produce to neighborhoods

It’s a small patch of land that’s about to make a big difference in Jackson. “We hope this garden will get folks excited about some fresh produce,” said Payge Lindow, Farm Manager for Grow Jackson. Over the summer, ...

Habitat for Humanity making impact in Jackson neighborhoods

While many see a boarded up, blighted house on Jackson’s northwest side, Sara Napoletano sees potential. “This house means everything for my family. Better living, more space, and new opportunities,” Napoletano said. The future first-time homeowner and he...

Vaccine clinic at MLK Center gives 1,112 doses of COVID-19 vaccine in 2 months

Jackson residents continue to roll up their sleeves to get COVID-19 vaccines. One strategy to make sure all residents have access to the vaccine is holding a vaccination clinic at the City of Jackson’s Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. T...

MLK Corridor Improvement Authority holds first official meeting

A Jackson neighborhood is set to see big improvements in the coming years. The MLK Corridor Improvement Authority is getting that work started by holding its first official meeting of the Board of Directors on Thursday, May 27.  

The main goal of ...

New affordable housing complex opens in Downtown Jackson

Downtown Jackson continues to welcome new residents with the opening of the Albert Kahn Apartments earlier this spring. Located on S. Jackson Street between W. Washington Avenue and W. Cortland Street, the Albert Kahn Apartments make use of the former Jac...

Jackson City Council May 25, 2021 virtual meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, May 25. A recording of the meeting is available on this page. Here are highlights from the meeting: 

• Jackson water and sewer customers will see a rate increase starting in July....

Councilmember Will Forgrave holds neighborhood meeting for Jackson's Sixth Ward

Sixth Ward City Councilmember Will Forgrave held a virtual neighborhood meeting on Monday, May 24.  Lead water service line replacement costs were discussed at the meeting, along with the proposed Urban Farming Ordinance and the new City budget. ...

New trail under construction in Jackson to increase pedestrian access, create safe walks to school

A new trail that will increase pedestrian access in a popular park and create safe walks to school is currently under construction in Jackson! After two months of preparing the site and removing an old trail, crews are now hard at work pouring concrete fo...

Jackson City Council holds Virtual Budget Workshop

A virtual meeting of Jackson City Council to review the new City of Jackson budget was held on Tuesday, May 18. The virtual Budget Workshop was live-streamed on the City Facebook page and website. A recording of the meeting is available on this p...

Jackson City Council May 11, 2021 Virtual Meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, May 11. A recording of the meeting is available on this page. Here are highlights from the meeting: 

• The first social district permits were approved by the City Council. The Grand River B...

Nixon Skate Park reopens for skateboarding fun

The skate park in the City's Nixon Park reopened on May 7 for the summer season. It was closed last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Councilmember Dwyer Schlecte holds neighborhood meeting for Jackson's Fourth Ward

Fourth Ward City Councilmember Laura Dwyer Schlecte held a virtual neighborhood meeting Monday, May 10 on the Zoom platform. 

Two proposed City ordinances, the Neighborhood Association Ordinance and the Urban Farming Ordinance, were discu...

City asks residents to be aware of grass cutting rules

With grass cutting season here, the City of Jackson is reminding residents to keep their lawns mowed. Having a tidy lawn is courteous to neighbors and helps avoid a fine. The City hopes to decrease the amount of fines this year by increasing efforts to ed...

Spring Cleanup Events planned for Jackson residents

Jackson residents have opportunities this May to get rid of yard waste and trash. The City of Jackson is holding Spring Cleanup Events on Saturday, May 8 and Saturday, May 15 at the Department of Public Works Operations Center near Downtown Jackson. The e...

Social district created for Downtown Jackson to help businesses and customers during pandemic

Jackson residents will soon have a new way to support downtown businesses and socialize safely. At their Tuesday, April 27 virtual meeting, the Jackson City Council voted 6 to 1 to create a social district for Downtown Jackson. Once the district ...

Jackson City Council April 27, 2021 virtual meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, April 27. Here are highlights from the meeting:

• The City Council voted to create a social district for Downtown Jackson. Once the district begins later this summer, permitted bars and restaurants ...

Bark! Construction on Jackson's first dog park begins with groundbreaking

Tails are wagging across Jackson with the start of construction at Betty’s Dog Park! The City’s first-ever public dog park was celebrated Friday morning with a groundbreaking event attended by City officials, residents, and four-legged...

Races set for Mayor and City Council races in 2021 elections

Jackson voters will go to the polls this year to decide the next Mayor and who will sit on the City Council. The City Clerk’s Office has verified paperwork submitted by candidates for the 2021 City elections. The following candidates will appear on ballot...

Human Relations Commission releases statement on George Floyd murder verdict

Street construction season starts with projects on Morrell and Clinton

Two long-awaited street construction projects kick off Jackson’s busy street construction season. On Monday, April 26, Morrell Street and Clinton Street closed to through traffic so construction crews can begin work to re-build these deteriorati...

Councilmember Dancy hosts virtual neighborhood meeting for Jackson's Second Ward

Second Ward City Councilmember Freddie Dancy held a neighborhood meeting Monday, April 26 on the Zoom platform to meet with residents virtually. 

The proposed Neighborhood Association Ordinance was discussed at the virtual event. Reviewed by the C...

Spring Newsletter Now Available!

The Spring 2021 edition of the City of Jackson newsletter is now available! The seasonal newsletter is mailed to every address in the City and is available for pick-up on the First Floor of Jackson City Hall. It can also be viewed online. 

• Spring ...

Spring Hydrant Flushing Program underway

With more people staying home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Jackson is increasing efforts to inform residents about temporary impacts to water service from hydrant flushing. The annual Spring Hydrant Flushing Program from the Departme...

Jackson City Council April 13 Virtual Meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, April 13. Here are highlights of what was decided: 

• The City Council approved a resolution that allows the City Manager to waive certain permit fees. This is to alleviate financial strain...

We're hiring! Seasonal part-time workers needed for Ella Sharp Park

There are several positions open for workers in Ella Sharp Park, the golf course, and the mini golf course.

Our Town program serves 42,000 free meals, gives $420,000 to local businesses in 10 weeks

Jackson is celebrating the success of an innovative program that helped the community through tough times during the COVID-19 pandemic. On Friday, April 9, the last meal of the Our Town Meal Distribution Program will be served, ending a 10-week program th...

Installing a fence? City launches new web page for fence permit information

Building a new fence or replacing an existing fence requires a permit from the City of Jackson. Making sure the fence is approved by the City ensures the fence is appropriate for the property and does not affect the look of neighborhoods.

Racial Equity Commission holds first virtual public meeting

A new commission focused on furthering racial equity efforts in Jackson is getting started. The Racial Equity Commission will held its first virtual public meeting on Tuesday, April 6 on the online Zoom platform. 

The Racial Equity Commission was ...

Transgender Pride Flag flying in Downtown Jackson for International Transgender Day of Visibility

Flashes of white, pink and blue are flying proudly in the heart of Jackson. These three colors make up the Transgender Pride Flag. The morning of Wednesday, March 31, City of Jackson officials and local LGBTQ activists made history as they hoisted the fla...

Deadline to file paperwork to run in 2021 City Elections is Tuesday, April 20

The City of Jackson is reminding residents that elections will be held this year for the Mayor and City Council representatives in Wards 1, 3, and 5.

If you are interested in running for these offices, the time to act is now. 

The first step is fil...

Human Relations Commission releases Anti-Hate statement on Asian American Issues

The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission (HRC) is releasing an anti-hate statement following recent attacks on Asian American communities. The full statement is below. 

“The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission stands in sorrow and sol...

Jackson City Council March 23 Virtual Meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, March 23. Here are highlights from the meeting. 

• Virtual meetings will continue until further notice. The City Council approved a resolution that allows the City Council and other boards/...

City of Jackson 2020 Income Tax Return due date extended

The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced that the federal income tax filing due date for 2020 returns has been extended from April 15, 2021 to May 17, 2021. The IRS made this change to be mindful of continued impacts o...

Watch the 2021 State of the City Address from Mayor Derek Dobies

While the venue may be different this year, the State of the City Address continues to be a time when City residents can come together to reflect on the past year and look toward the future. That’s what Mayor Derek Dobies did in his fourth State of the Ci...

Human Relations Commission hosts Virtual Vaccine Town Hall

With efforts ramping up to get Jackson residents vaccinated, it’s important that everyone in the community has access to accurate information. The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission (HRC) partnered with Henry Ford Allegiance Health, the ...

Section of Lansing Ave. closing to traffic for tree removals on Monday, March 15

A busy street in Jackson will close for most of Monday, March 15 so the Department of Public Works (DPW) can remove three dead trees. Lansing Avenue between N. Blackstone Street and W. Ganson Street will close to traffic from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Because this...

See the City of Jackson 2020 Annual Report

2020 was a challenging year. 

But it's important we document the obstacles and accomplishments of the City of Jackson for future generations.

The 2020 Annual Report, which is put together by the City's Public Information Officer i...

Jackson City Council passes Fair Chance Housing Ordinance

Jackson residents with a criminal background will soon have a “fair chance” at housing. At their Tuesday, March 9 virtual meeting, the City Council voted to officially enact the City’s Fair Chance Housing Ordinance, which bar...

Jackson City Council March 9, 2021 Meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Tuesday, March 9. Here are highlights from the meeting: 

• The City Council voted 5 to 1 to officially adopt the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance. The ordinance prohibits landlords from asking potentia...

COVID-19 vaccines available at MLK Center

A vaccine clinic from Henry Ford Allegiance Health continues to serve Jackson residents at the City's Martin Luther King Jr. Center. COVID-19 vaccinations are now available every Thursday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. You can make an appointment or walk-...

Our Town Meal Program serves 18,100 meals, gives $200K to local businesses in first 5 weeks

Five weeks into the Our Town Meal Distribution Program, the Jackson community is seeing the sizable impact of this special collaboration between the City of Jackson and Consumers Energy. Since the program began Feb. 1, 18,100 free meals have been distribu...

Learn how to buy City-owned vacant lots and homes

All the information residents need to know about buying vacant lots or homes is found on the City website.

Jackson Youth Council holds first virtual meeting

The voice of Jackson’s youth is being heard in Jackson City Hall. On Wednesday, March 3, the Jackson Youth Council will held its first virtual public meeting. The council is comprised of nine Jackson high school students appointed by the City of...

Jackson City Council Feb. 23, 2021 meeting

The Jackson City Council held a virtual meeting on Feb. 23, 2021. Here are highlights from the meeting: 

• The City Council unanimously approved the first reading of a Fair Chance Housing Ordinance for the City. The ordinance would prohibit landlord...

New email address created for residents to submit comments for City Council meetings

There's now an easier email for residents to use for submitting comments to the City Council for citizen comment time and hearings. 

The email address comments@cityofjackson.org was created to provide residents with a si...

Efforts continue to help residents with unpaid water bills

With 2,200 residential water customers severely behind on paying bills, the City of Jackson continues to work with residents on ways they can take care of unpaid water bills. Help is available through various programs using COVID-19 relief funds.

Since th...

Jackson City Council Feb. 9, 2021 Meeting

Here are highlights from the Tuesday, Feb. 9 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council. 

• The City Council unanimously voted to allocate an additional $120,000 toward a foreclosure prevention program. The program is administered by the Community ...

Open position on the Jackson Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

Jackson residents are invited to apply to serve on the Jackson Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (JBRA). 

The JBRA oversees the use of tax increment financing on select properties, such as former industrial and commercial sites,  that ne...

City and Ella Sharp Museum collaborate on Black History Month Celebration

The City of Jackson and Ella Sharp Museum are coming together to tell the stories of Jackson’s African American community for Black History Month 2021! Throughout the month of February, artifacts and displays relating to Black History from Ella ...

Our Town Meal Distribution Program: How to get free meals

The Our Town Meal Distribution Program is a collaboration of Consumers Energy and the City of Jackson to provide free meals from local restaurants to people in need.

Youth basketball program postponed to summer 2021

The Youth Basketball League planned for winter 2021 is postponed to the summer 2021 due to the State of Michigan's COVID-19 guidelines regarding contact sports. 

If you have already registered, contact the Jackson Recreation Depa...

Jackson City Council Jan. 26, 2021 Meeting

Here are highlights of what was decided at tonight’s meeting of the Jackson City Council.  

Help available for Jackson residents facing foreclosure

As foreclosures loom for some residents due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Jackson is allocating more funds to help keep families in their homes. At their Tuesday, Feb. 9 virtual meeting, the Jackson City Council unanimously voted to put an additio...

City and Consumers Energy announce program to support local restaurants, provide meals to community

NEWS RELEASE FROM CONSUMERS ENERGY FROM 1-19-21: 

Consumers Energy and the City of Jackson today announced the start of the Our Town Meal Distribution program, a one-of-a-kind collaboration in Michigan to support local restaurants and provide free...

Millennium Clock Tower tolls 188 times to remember residents lost to COVID-19 pandemic

The City of Jackson is joined other communities across the country in a nationwide effort to remember lives lost in the COVID-19 pandemic. At 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 19, the Millennium Clock Tower in Downtown Jackson tolled 188 times to remember the 18...

Jackson City Council Jan. 12, 2021 Meeting

Here are highlights from the Jan. 12, 2021 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council: 

-The City Council approved the sale of a historic train to a museum in Pennsylvania. Locomotive No. 5030, which dates to 1912, has been on display in R.A. Gre...

City of Jackson Winter Newsletter Now Available

The Winter 2021 edition of the City of Jackson newsletter is now available! The seasonal newsletter is mailed to every address in the City and is available for pick-up on the First Floor of Jackson City Hall. It can also be viewed online. 

• Winter ...

Jackson City Council Meeting Jan. 5, 2021

The Jackson City Council held a special virtual meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 5 to discuss an ethics investigation. Here are highlights of what was decided: 

-The City Council voted to accept written answers from Councilmember Laura Dwyer Schlecte abou...

Woof! City of Jackson announces creation of new dog park

Four-legged furry friends and their two-legged parents will soon have a new park made just for canines to socialize and romp around in. The City of Jackson is announcing the creation of its first-ever dog park! Located at the corner of N. Blackstone and V...

Latest information on COVID-19 vaccine in Jackson County

The Jackson County Health Department will begin COVID-19 vaccinations in the coming weeks.

Jackson School of the Arts moving downtown following purchase of City-owned property

A vacant historic building in Downtown Jackson will soon be filled with art, dance, theatre and music! At their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 8, the Jackson City Council approved a $500,000 offer from the Jackson School of the Arts (JSA) to purchase the former...

UPDATE: Leaf collection completed

The City of Jackson Department of Public Works (DPW) started the Fall 2020 Loose Leaf Collection Program on Monday, Nov. 2. The DPW is planning two rounds of leaf collection in every section of the City from Monday, Nov. 2 through Thursday, Dec. 10. &...

Jackson City Council Meeting Dec. 8, 2020

Here are highlights from the Dec. 8, 2020 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council: 

Jackson firefighters train to keep rescue skills sharp

When they're not putting out fires or responding to emergency calls, firefighters spend lots of time training to keep their skills sharp. 

City of Jackson and Summit Township firefighters trained together in early Dec. to make sure they&a...

1 million pounds of food distributed in community COVID-19 response

JOINT NEWS RELEASE FROM THE CITY OF JACKSON AND THE UNITED WAY OF JACKSON COUNTY: 

Despite the lingering pandemic, an army of local community volunteers, government leaders, businesses, nonprofits and others have distributed an estimated 1,032,300...

Jackson City Council Nov. 24, 2020 meeting

Here are highlights of what happened at the Nov. 24, 2020 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council: 

-The City of Jackson is getting its first marijuana business. The City Council approved a marijuana license for Attitude Wellness at 1512 N. We...

New roundabout opens at MLK Drive and Morrell Street

Traffic is moving again through the intersection of MLK Drive and Morrell Street following the completion of a massive construction project! 

There's now a new roundabout at the intersection, which includes increased pedestrian access and...

See inside the new Dept. of Public Works Operations Center

Department of Public Works (DPW) crews have a new place to launch from when they go out to maintain Jackson's streets and infrastructure! 

The new DPW Operations Center was completed earlier this fall on Water Street. 

This video ...

Jackson City Council Meeting Nov. 10, 2020

Here are highlights from the Nov. 10, 2020 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council: 

-Two street construction projects are taking a step forward following City Council approval. The council voted to advance special assessments for th...

New historical marker honors Jackson's anti-slavery history

Jackson’s anti-slavery history is being honored with a new State of Michigan Historical Marker. The marker, titled “Abolitionists in Jackson”, was unveiled during an outdoor event Friday morning in Bucky Harris Park.

Bucky Ha...

Jackson City Council officially creates MLK Corridor Improvement Authority

A Jackson neighborhood is set to see big improvements in the coming years. At its Oct. 27 meeting, the Jackson City Council voted unanimously to officially create the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority. 

The main goal of the corridor improvement a...

Improvements planned for Loomis Park & Boos Community Center

A popular park and busy community center in an east side neighborhood are about to see big improvements from the City of Jackson. 

Loomis Park is the largest public park on Jackson’s east side. At their Sept. 8 meeting, the Jackson City ...

Two City Charter amendments approved by Jackson voters in Nov. election

Two changes are being made to the Jackson City Charter after voters overwhelmingly approved two amendments in the Nov. 3 General Election. Here are breakdowns of the two Charter amendments and what they mean for Jackson. 

AMENDMENT TO CITY CHARTER...

Jackson City Council Oct. 27, 2020 Meeting

The Jackson City Council returned to a virtual format for it Oct. 27 meeting. Here are highlights of what happened at the meeting: 

-The City Council voted unanimously to officially create the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority. The auth...

Human Relations Commission releases election civility statement

The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission (HRC) is calling on the Jackson community to show civility during the Nov. 3 General Election. A statement on election civility was confirmed at the commission’s meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 21. This ...

Completion of MLK Center renovation project celebrated with ribbon cutting event

The Jackson community celebrated the completion of a $1.9 million renovation of the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center with an outdoor ribbon cutting Friday morning. The ribbon cutting event, which was attended by local officials and community membe...

City of Jackson receives award for financial reporting

The City of Jackson is getting international recognition for its transparency in financial reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial...

How to vote using an absentee ballot in the City of Jackson

The City of Jackson has seen a large increase in residents voting by absentee ballot during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Voters who applied for an absentee ballot in the August Primary Election and indicated they’d like to receive an absentee ballot fo...

New program helps police department identify missing people with communication difficulties

Realizing a loved one is missing and unable to communicate can be a scary experience for families. A new program launched by the Jackson Police Department will give caregivers peace of mind that their loved one can be quickly identified and safely brought...

City receives State grant to provide lighting on MLK Equality Trail

Local walkers, runners and bikers are about to be illuminated by new lighting coming to the City of Jackson’s main pedestrian trail. At their Tuesday, Oct. 13 meeting, the Jackson City Council accepted a grant from the Michigan Department of Nat...

Jackson City Council Meeting Oct. 13, 2020

The Jackson City Council had an unusual venue for its Tuesday, Oct. 13 meeting. The meeting was held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center pavilion.  Due to the ending of Executive Orders on virtual meetings and COVID-19 concerns, the me...

Local high school students may now apply to serve on the first-ever Jackson Youth Council

High school students who would like to make a difference in their local government are invited to serve on the newly-created Jackson Youth Council. The City of Jackson is now taking applications for positions on the Youth Council. 

The 10 member c...

Be counted! Respond to the U.S. Census

The City of Jackson is reminding residents to be counted in the 2020 Census. 

If you haven’t completed the Census yet, you should know the deadline is Saturday, Oct. 31. Thankfully, this is something you and your family can do from the s...

Fall Hydrant Flushing Program begins Sept. 21

The City of Jackson Department of Public Works (DPW) is conducting its Fall Hydrant Flushing Program starting Monday, Sept. 21. The flushing activity starts in the southwest section of the City and is set to conclude on Tuesday, Oct. 6 in the northeast se...

City Council creates Racial Equity Commission, Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

A new commission and City department has been created to focus on racial equity efforts in the City of Jackson. At their Tuesday, Sept. 9 meeting, the Jackson City Council voted to create the Racial Equity Commission and the Department of Diversity, Equit...

Jackson City Council Sept. 8, 2020 Meeting

Here are highlights from the Sept. 8, 2020 meeting of the Jackson City Council:

• The City Council unanimously approved the creation of a Racial Equity Commission and a Department of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity. The new commission and department will hel...

Fall 2020 Newsletter now available!

The Fall 2020 edition of the City of Jackson Newsletter is now available to view! 

You can see a digital copy of the newsletter on the City website. 

Here’s what’s featured in this edition: 

• A guide for...

Protect waterways: How to be storm drain savvy

You don’t have to live on waterfront property to have direct access to Michigan’s rivers and lakes. The water that runs off your property into the street storm drain flows straight into the local water system.  That’...

Neighborhood street resurfacing project continues this fall

Three neighborhood streets on Jackson’s west side with crumbling pavement and outdated sidewalks are getting big overhauls this fall as an ongoing street improvement project continues. Thompson, Durand and Higby streets between Carlton Boulevard...

City proposes using more federal funds to help residents with unpaid water bills

With job layoffs and various financial strains, the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for many Jackson residents. The City of Jackson believes these tough times are causing residents to fall behind on water bills. Last month, the Utility Billing Divisi...

Smoking ban in Jackson parks and cemeteries begins

Jackson’s parks and cemeteries have gone smoke free.  An addition to the City’s Clean Air Ordinance, which prohibits the use of tobacco products in public parks and cemeteries, went into effect on Friday, Aug. 14.

The ordinanc...

Jonathan Greene is Jackson's new City Manager

Jonathan Greene has been a familiar face around Jackson for the last 11 years as he’s worked his way through City government.  His latest job has him working on the top floor of Jackson City Hall as the new City Manager. 

Greene...

Jackson City Council Aug. 11 Meeting

Here are highlights from the Aug. 11 virtual meeting of the Jackson City Council: 

The City Council unanimously approved the appointment of Jonathan Greene to the City Manager position. He had been serving as the Interim City Manager since Feb. Gr...

Learn about the proposed MLK Corridor Improvement Authority

A Jackson neighborhood could see big improvements in the coming years. The Jackson City Council will soon consider officially establishing the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority for Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Prospect Street in Jackson’s s...

Bucky Harris Park recognized by National Park Service for Underground Railroad History

A public park in Downtown Jackson is being recognized for its connections to the Underground Railroad. Bucky Harris Park was recently added to the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. It’s a program...

In-person Administrative Hearings Bureau meetings resume in Aug.

The City of Jackson’s Administrative Hearings Bureau (AHB) is resuming in-person meetings for the month of August. These will be the first in-person public meetings the City is allowing since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March.

The AHB is a C...

Summer 2020 City of Jackson Newsletter now available!

Learn the latest news from the City of Jackson! 

Our City newsletter is mailed out to every home and business in the City once every season. 

This summer 2020 issue focuses on how the City and community continues to respond to the COVID-19...

Human Relations Commission looking for new members

The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission (HRC) is looking for new members. 

The commission is currently looking to fill two vacancies.  They are for a commissioner and ex-officio commissioner position. Those interested in applying c...

Reminder: Do not place election signs on City property or along streets

With the 2020 elections quickly approaching, you’ve probably seen a lot of election signs around Jackson. 

The City has noticed that many of them are inappropriately placed on City property and the "right of way" area, which is...

New website launched for City property sales

Jackson residents have a new way to locate and buy City-owned property. The City of Jackson has launched a new section of its website for City property sales. By visiting cityofjackson.org/citypropertysales,  residents can see which properties ar...

Human Relations Commission releases anti-racism statement

The City of Jackson Human Relations Commission is releasing an anti-racism statement. The statement was confirmed at the commission’s meeting on Wednesday, July 15. This is the full statement: 

“We, the members of the City of J...

City stresses the importance of special event approval process

Response fund distributes 170k pounds of food, 132k basic need items with help from City of Jackson

Jackson continues to come together to meet community needs during the COVID-19 crisis. One partnership that is making an impact is the collaboration of the City of Jackson and the United Way of Jackson County.  

This time of the year, the Boos Com...

Jackson City Hall reopens to the public following COVID-19 closure

After a COVID-19 closure that’s lasted nearly four months, Jackson City Hall officially reopened to the public on Wednesday, July 8. 

Reopening City Hall comes with the following safety measures to protect public health: 

• Anyone ...

Greenwood Avenue and traffic circle now open to traffic!

The year-long construction project to repave Greenwood Avenue from Mason to Morrell and build a traffic circle around Austin Blair Park is finally complete! 

The scope of the project and weather delays caused this $2.3 million project to fall seve...

Learn about the City's fireworks laws ahead of Independence Day

As Jackson residents plan summer holiday celebrations, they will want to be aware of the City’s Fireworks ordinance.

The Jackson City Council changed the City of Jackson’s Fireworks Ordinance in April 2019 to reflect the new state laws....

Reduce the cost of blight violation fines by working with the City

Residents who are facing fines for blight violations have an opportunity to avoid some fees if they work with the City. 

At its June 16 meeting, the Jackson City Council passed a resolution that allows residents to reduce the amount they owe in fi...

Black Lives Matter mural painted in Downtown Jackson

The Jackson community came together on Friday, June 19 in Downtown Jackson to make an important statement about our city: Black Lives Matter. The City of Jackson worked with residents to paint a mural on the road surface of W. Washington Avenue that says ...

Jackson celebrates Juneteenth 2020 with special video tribute

Every June, thousands of Jackson residents pack Horace Blackman Park in Downtown Jackson to celebrate Juneteenth. This year’s public Juneteenth event, which was organized by Jackson College, had to be canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. Wanting t...

Racism declared a public health crisis in Jackson

At their virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 16, the Jackson City Council unanimously approved a resolution that declares racism a public health crisis, and lays out ways to dismantle systematic racism in Jackson.

The resolution, titled Declaration of Racism ...

Jackson City Council June 16, 2020 meeting

Here are some highlights from the Jackson City Council’s virtual meeting on June 16.

• The council adopted a resolution that declares racism a public health crisis. The resolution recognizes the impacts of institutional racism on the health and wel...

MLK Drive construction project begins Monday, June 15

A $2.4 million construction project that will reconstruct a major road and build a new roundabout at a busy intersection starts Monday, June 15 in Jackson. The work is happening on S. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive between E. Mason and E. Morrell streets. C...

City of Jackson residents may now apply for COVID-19 relief through Community Action Agency

With the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic hitting the community, the City of Jackson and Community Action Agency (CAA) are joining forces to keep Jackson residents in their homes with access to water. Residents can now apply for assistance through CAA to ...

REVISED: Parks and Recreation reopening plan

UPDATED: The City of Jackson is announcing plans to reopen park facilities and restart recreation programs! This decision comes after a new Executive Order from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that ends the Stay Home, Stay Safe Order and moves Michigan into Stage 4...

City of Jackson celebrates LGBTQ pride month

The City of Jackson is recognizing LGBTQ pride month with a Mayoral Proclamation, video, and flying of the pride flag in Horace Blackman Park.

On Monday, June 8, Mayor Derek Dobies signed a Mayoral Proclamation that designates June 2020 as LGBTQ Pride Mont...

W. Franklin St. reconstruction project starts Monday, June 8

The first major road construction project of the summer 2020 season starts in Jackson on Monday, June 8 with a full-scale reconstruction of W. Franklin Street between S. Brown Street and S. West Avenue. The $1.9 million project will fully reconstruct the ...

City's MLK Community Center getting new weight room thanks to donation from Alro Steel

When the City of Jackson’s newly renovated Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center reopens later this year, residents can enjoy new exercise equipment donated by Alro Steel, a local metal distribution company. The refurbished exercise area, name...

Jackson has most energy-efficient buildings for a small city in the nation

TAKEN FROM CONSUMERS ENERGY PRESS RELEASE: 

JACKSON, Mich., June 3, 2020 – Consumers Energy’s hometown of Jackson is now Michigan’s clean energy capital, after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced it has...

City reacts to lifting of Stay Home order with partial City Hall reopening & business help

City of Jackson statement on planned protests in Jackson

The City of Jackson and Jackson Police Department are aware of peaceful protests planned for the afternoon of Monday, June 1 in Downtown Jackson near the Jackson County Courthouse and at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and High Street. Ci...

Street & lane closures in Downtown Jackson start June 1 for railroad bridge replacement project

A long-waited construction project to replace two aging railroad bridges in Downtown Jackson will begin on Monday, June 1. In order to replace the railroad bridges that go over N. Jackson and N. Mechanic streets, Consumers Energy must first upgrade electr...

Memorial Day message from Mayor Derek Dobies

While we are recognizing Memorial Day differently this year, the message is still the same. Thank you to the brave men and women who have died serving our country. Mayor Derek Dobies honors Memorial Day with this video message, and shares a way residents ...

City creates new public park on S. MLK Drive named "Workers Memorial Park"

A new public park has been created in the City of Jackson. At their Tuesday, May 26 meeting, the Jackson City Council voted to create a new park in a neighborhood south of Downtown Jackson. 

The new park, which is located on S. Martin Luther King ...

COVID-19 response efforts making impact in Jackson

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis continues to affect the community, Jackson is rising to the challenge and stepping up to help those in need. This important work of responding to basic needs is taking place through the leadership of the Jackson COVID-...

Mayors of Jackson & Lansing join forces for "Stay Home, Stay Safe" PSA

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacts lives across mid-Michigan, two mayors are teaming up for a united message to keep people safe. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor and Jackson Mayor Derek Dobies have recorded a joint public service announcement (PSA) t...

Jackson area public safety honors hospital workers with first responder parade

Hospitals across the country have been ground zero in the fight against coronavirus (COVID-19). In Jackson, that fight is taking place at Henry Ford Allegiance Health, where frontline workers are there around the clock to care for those battling COVID-19....

Jackson City Council April 14, 2020 meeting

The Jackson City Council held its third virtual meeting during the COVID-19 crisis. Here are a few highlights from their meeting on Tuesday, April 14.

-The council formally accepted the resignation of Fifth Ward Councilmember Kelsey Heck. The City Charter ...

City of Jackson receiving $700,000 from federal government for COVID-19 response

The City of Jackson’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic just got a big boost from the federal government. $756,020 in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) is on its way to help fund Jackson’s emergency response.

Cities in Michigan ...

Jackson unites to meet community needs during COVID-19 pandemic

The Jackson community is coming together to respond to the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19).   Following the Local State of Emergency declaration from Mayor Derek Dobies on March 17, a section of Jackson County’s emergency response was...

City of Jackson and Summit Township firefighters join forces to fight Coronavirus

Local firefighters are now fighting a different common enemy: Coronavirus. On March 25, the Summit/Jackson Professional Firefighters Union entered into a special operating agreement with the City of Jackson to respond to the threat of Coronavirus (COVID-1...

City responds to Governor's "Stay Home, Stay Safe" Executive Order

The City of Jackson continues to respond to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and its impacts on the community. Following Gov. Whitmer’s Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order on Monday, March 23, City leaders have been taking leadership and making decisions...

City Council votes to extend Local State of Emergency