Percy Bland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Percy Bland
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Bland at the Meridian Temple Theater in 2013
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| Mayor of Meridian, Mississippi | |
| Assumed office June 30, 2025 |
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| Succeeded by | Jimmie Smith |
| In office July 1, 2013 – July 1, 2021 |
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| Preceded by | Cheri Merritt Barry |
| Succeeded by | Jimmie Smith |
| Personal details | |
| Born | September 23, 1970 Crystal Springs, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Deidre Bland
(m. 1999) |
| Residences | Meridian, Mississippi |
| Alma mater | Xavier University of Louisiana (B.S.) University of Southern Mississippi (M.P.H.) |
| Profession | State Farm Insurance Agent |
Percy Bland is an American politician who is the mayor of Meridian, Mississippi. He made history in 2013 when he became the first African American mayor of the city. He is known for helping to improve and modernize Downtown Meridian.
As mayor, Bland helped complete many important projects. These included turning the old Threefoot Building into a hotel and lighting up Highway 59/20. His work also encouraged new businesses and restaurants to open in the downtown area. After serving from 2013 to 2021, he was re-elected as mayor in 2025.
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Early Life and Education
Percy Bland was born in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, on September 23, 1970. He grew up in Jackson, Mississippi, where he went to St. Joseph High School.
For college, Bland attended Xavier University of Louisiana and earned a degree in chemistry while also playing on the basketball team. Later, he earned a Master's degree in Public Health from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Bland and his wife, Deidre, were married in 1999 and have two children.
Career Before Politics
Before becoming mayor, Bland worked as a scientist who studies how diseases spread for the Fulton County Health Department in Atlanta, Georgia.
After returning to Mississippi, he worked as a director for a family health center. Later, Bland moved to Meridian to open his own State Farm Insurance agency, which he still runs today.
Community Work
In 2007, Bland helped lead a successful effort to raise $19.5 million for major improvements to Meridian's public schools. It was the first time in over 20 years that the schools received such a large update.
Bland also helped start youth programs in Meridian. He co-founded the Magnolia Youth Sports Association and helped bring The First Tee, a golf program for kids, to the city.
Mayor of Meridian (2013–2021)
In 2013, Percy Bland was elected mayor of Meridian with 54% of the vote. He was sworn into office on July 1, 2013, becoming the city's first African-American mayor.
First Term Achievements
One of Bland's first actions was to create a policy for a "livable wage." This raised the minimum pay for all city workers to $9 per hour.
His administration started many programs to help the community. He worked with local businesses to recognize outstanding teachers each month. To improve safety, a new warning siren was installed near a new fire station. He also helped build a new community center.
In 2014, the city launched new programs to fight crime, including a new gang task force. That same year, Bland helped bring American Airlines to Meridian, giving people more travel options.
Programs for Families and Seniors
Bland started several initiatives to support families. The "Kidz Zone Initiative" was a partnership with local schools to show family-friendly movies at the Temple Theatre. He also created a "Senior Prom" to offer fun activities for older citizens.
In October 2014, the city received a $600,000 grant to help build a new community center for up to 400 children. In 2015, Bland worked with the Choctaw Tribal Chief to bring public bus transportation back to Meridian.
Second Term Achievements
Bland was re-elected for a second term in 2017. During this time, he focused on improving the city's roads, buildings, and parks. His administration paved over 28 miles of streets and installed new, brighter LED streetlights.
He also expanded sports programs for children and added new playground equipment at several parks. In 2019, his administration honored the famous singer David Ruffin by renaming a downtown street "David Ruffin Blvd."
Under Bland's leadership, the historic Threefoot Building was renovated into a modern hotel. He also supported the creation of the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience (The MAX) and the Meridian Children's Museum.
In April 2021, Bland lost the Democratic primary election to Jimmie Smith, who then won the general election and became the next mayor.
Return to Office in 2025
In April 2025, Bland ran for mayor again, facing Jimmie Smith in the primary election. This time, Bland won the nomination with 67% of the vote.
He then won the general election in June 2025. On June 30, 2025, Bland was sworn in for his third term as the mayor of Meridian.
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