The Meridian City Council confirmed Terrell Thompson as the city’s community development director, approving the appointment 4-1 during its meeting.
Thompson told the council he plans to focus on removing blight, rebuilding neighborhoods and promoting homeownership, and said he will work closely with the planning department to move community development "into the next generation." He also said he has submitted budget requests for additional code enforcement and building inspection staff.
The appointment drew brief questions from council members about whether new hires would reduce pressure on elected officials and staff. Thompson said the additional staffing requested in his budget would “take some pressure off” elected officials who respond to code issues. A council member who identified concerns thanked Thompson for his work and said she would continue to observe department activity in neighborhoods.
Why it matters: The community development director oversees code enforcement, planning and neighborhood redevelopment—areas council members said affect property values, safety and the pace of downtown and residential projects such as Compass and other downtown investments.
In the meeting, Thompson also mentioned plans to coordinate cultural events with the city’s cultural affairs director and to pursue neighborhood-focused initiatives including a proposed James Chaney Day. He said he will rely on existing staff and outside mentorship to implement changes.
Discussion vs. decision: Council discussion centered on staffing and neighborhood strategy. The formal action was the confirmation vote, which carried 4-1.
Next steps: Thompson said he will proceed with the budget requests he described and work with planning staff on immediate priorities.