State officials would plan future use of Jackson land

The resolution would direct the Department of Finance and Administration to work with state institutions and other relevant groups on a land-use plan and report. The plan would cover state-owned land bounded by North State Street, East Woodrow Wilson Avenue, North Mill Street, and Taylor Street in Jackson. The report would need specific recommendations for the land's use. The report would be due to the Legislature by January 1, 2027.

The report would recommend a site for a multipurpose facility near Jackson State University and include state and private funding commitments. The facility would be on or near Jackson State University's campus and would need at least 30,000 seats combined. The proposed site must be workable and affordable, serve students and nearby residents, and avoid undue harm. Before January 1, 2027, the university must show that at least $50 million from private, local, or federal sources has been irrevocably dedicated for the facility. The university would have to provide proof of the dedicated $50 million before January 1, 2027.

The resolution would allow Jackson State University to permit name use on stadium property and, with approval, lease naming rights. Name use and naming-rights leases could cover stadium property, including buildings, improvements, grounds, and objects. The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning would have to approve a naming-rights lease. The lessee would pay to put up, maintain, and remove related signs. A naming-rights lease could last no more than 20 years.

The resolution would direct that up to $400,000 be appropriated to help pay for the report and related work. The funds would go to the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning. The money would come from the Capital Expense Fund and would be limited to the amount needed for the report and related activities.