Planning

The Central Mississippi Planning and Development District (CMPDD) provides a wide range of services to assist member governments with planning, coordination, and implementation of local initiatives. Our goal is to support cities and counties in Central Mississippi with practical and strategic guidance that promotes long-term community development and resilience.

Land Use Planning
CMPDD works closely with local governments to prepare and update comprehensive plans, which serve as long-range guides for growth and development. These plans help communities balance economic development, housing, infrastructure, and natural resources. CMPDD also assists with the development and revision of zoning ordinances and subdivision regulations, ensuring that land use decisions are consistent with each community’s goals and meet legal requirements.

Hazard Mitigation Planning
To promote safer and more resilient communities, CMPDD helps prepare and update hazard mitigation plans that identify risks from natural disasters such as floods, tornadoes, and severe storms. These federally approved plans are required to remain eligible for certain FEMA funding opportunities and help guide local actions to reduce or eliminate long-term risk.

Redistricting
CMPDD has extensive experience assisting local governments with redistricting efforts. Using advanced mapping software and official Census data for Mississippi, CMPDD helps ensure that voting districts reflect population changes and comply with the “one person, one vote” principle of the Voting Rights Act. CMPDD works with cities and counties to review existing district boundaries and determine whether adjustments are needed to meet federal guidelines. When redistricting is required, CMPDD provides technical support and guidance to develop fair and accurate district plans that promote equal representation.

Central Mississippi Mayors Association (CMMA)
CMPDD facilitates the Central Mississippi Mayors Association, a network that fosters collaboration, training, and the exchange of ideas among mayors from cities and towns across the region. Through regular meetings and special programs, CMMA strengthens leadership capacity and provides a forum to address shared challenges and opportunities.  Click here to visit the CMMA page.

Regional Government Assistance
CMPDD provides technical assistance and research support on a wide range of topics affecting local governance. This may include demographic and economic data analysis, ordinance review, and policy recommendations. Our planners and administrative staff are available to respond to the unique needs of each community we serve.

Through these services, CMPDD remains committed to helping local governments build stronger, safer, and more vibrant communities across Central Mississippi.

For additional information, please contact David Wade at (601) 981-1511.