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Biloxi council shortens bench-advertising contract, rejects removing one downtown bench
Summary
The council approved a change to the bench-advertising agreement to two-year terms (6-1) and rejected a motion to remove a specific bench location (failed 2-5). Debate centered on homeless use of benches, small-business advertising and CTA responsibilities.
The Biloxi City Council approved an amendment to the city's bench-advertising agreement that shortens contract length to two years, while keeping the existing set of advertised benches unchanged. The amendment passed 6-1.
Councilmembers discussed complaints that benches are sometimes used for sleeping by people experiencing homelessness and whether the city should remove specific benches. One proposed amendment to remove bench number 20 at DeBeers Road and Old Middle School failed on a 2-5 vote.
Councilmember Lawrence moved to keep the advertisement list the same and change the contract term to two years; Councilmember Glavin seconded the motion. Supporters said a two-year term is a reasonable compromise to give the advertising operator business certainty while allowing the city to revisit locations more often than under previous four-year terms.
Opponents said homeless use of benches is a problem that can reduce public access and impede small businesses. Several council members urged alternatives to outright removal, including deterrent features to prevent benches being used as beds and stronger involvement from CTA (Coast Transit Authority) at bus stops. The bench operator and members of the public previously told council that benches provide wayfinding and business advertising valued by tourists and locals.
The council first approved the change to a two-year term by a 6-1 vote. Later, a motion by Councilmember Tisdale to remove bench #20 (DeBeers Road / Old Middle School) was seconded and failed 2-5. The final amended agreement retains the current bench list and imposes two-year contract terms.
Council did not adopt a citywide ban on bench advertising; members said they prefer to pursue case-by-case solutions (deterrents, enforcement, and working with advertisers) before removing specific advertising locations.
