Residents of Garden Of Snowden Grove Complain About HOA and Drainage Issues

Residents of Southaven, Mississippi, voiced their concerns during the Mayor and Board of Aldermen meeting on April 15, 2025, particularly regarding drainage issues and the absence of a homeowners association (HOA) in the Garden of Snowden Grove subdivision. Nikita Wall, a resident, highlighted significant problems with a pond in the area, which has been affected by changes in water flow due to construction and drainage management. Wall expressed frustration over the city’s inability to address the drainage issues, as the pond's depth has decreased dramatically, impacting local wildlife and recreational fishing.

The city officials acknowledged the drainage problems but noted that the pond and surrounding areas are on private property, complicating any potential city intervention. Mayor Darren Maxwell emphasized the city’s commitment to addressing drainage issues throughout Southaven, stating that many problems have been resolved since the implementation of a formal drainage improvement policy in 2013.

Another resident, Randy Gill, raised concerns about a proposed development that could alter the character of the neighborhood, drawing parallels to past experiences in other areas. He urged the board to consider the long-term implications of such developments on community quality and property values.

The board also discussed a new residential development proposal, which includes townhomes and park expansion. While some members expressed support for the quality of the proposed development, others voiced concerns about its location and potential impact on future park plans. The board ultimately decided to table the motion for further consideration, allowing time for community feedback and potential adjustments to the proposal.

In addition to these discussions, the board approved a subdivision application for the Angel Commercial Subdivision, which involves separating commercial and residential properties to facilitate development.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between city officials and residents regarding development, community standards, and infrastructure challenges, with a focus on ensuring that the needs and concerns of the community are addressed in future planning efforts.