Mayor calls for public action on deteriorating Highway Baptist Church property in South Haven

The Southaven Mayor and Board of Aldermen convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss pressing community issues, with a significant focus on the deteriorating Highway Baptist Church property. Mayor Darren Musselwhite highlighted the ongoing safety concerns surrounding the building, which has faced numerous code violations and inspections over the past five years. He emphasized the need for action, stating that the property has become a public nuisance and poses safety risks due to its neglect.

The Mayor expressed a desire for community involvement in revitalizing the property, urging former members of the church and local residents to come forward with ideas and support. He acknowledged the historical significance of the church and its school, which were once vibrant parts of the community but have since fallen into disrepair. The Mayor's call for collaboration was echoed by several board members, who shared their concerns about the lack of active management of the property and the need for a solution.

Alderman Hoots and other members discussed potential options, including the possibility of transforming the site into a community garden or farmers market, while preserving the church's historical elements. The board recognized that without intervention, the city might need to take legal steps to acquire the property, as the current trustees have not been active for decades.

The meeting concluded with a consensus that the city must explore ways to address the situation, either through community engagement or by taking direct action to ensure the property does not continue to deteriorate. The Mayor reiterated his hope for a collaborative effort to restore the church and its grounds, emphasizing that the community's future is tied to the preservation of its historical sites.