Jackson Councilmember Opposes Water Rate Hike, Seeks Appeal

Councilman Kenneth Stokes plans to challenge federal judge's approval of 12% increase for JXN Water

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Jackson City Councilman Kenneth Stokes is preparing to bring an item to the next city council meeting, requesting the city's legal team file an appeal against a federal judge's ruling that approved a 12% rate increase for the city's water utility, JXN Water. Stokes argues the city should be finding ways to help residents get water service rather than face more shutoffs.

Why it matters

The proposed water rate hike is a contentious issue in Jackson, where many residents already struggle to afford basic utility costs. Councilman Stokes' appeal represents an effort to push back against the increase and advocate for more affordable water access in the city.

The details

Stokes, who represents Ward 3, says the city should be focused on helping people maintain water service rather than approving rate increases that could lead to more shutoffs. The city council is set to discuss the matter at its next meeting on Tuesday. Legislators have also been in talks about creating a regional metro water authority, but no decision has been made yet.

  • The city council will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.
  • A federal judge recently approved the 12% rate increase for JXN Water.

The players

Kenneth Stokes

A Jackson City Councilman representing Ward 3 who is preparing to challenge the federal judge's approval of a 12% water rate increase.

John Horhn

The Mayor of Jackson, who stated that the city is "standing in the gap" to pay water bills if a proposed regional water authority is unable to do so.

JXN Water

The water utility serving the city of Jackson, Mississippi, which was granted a 12% rate increase by a federal judge.

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What they’re saying

“We should be trying to find a way to help people get water on versus more people having their water turned off.”

— Kenneth Stokes, Jackson City Councilman (WAPT)

“The city of Jackson is standing in the gap, in the event that there's a shortfall where the authority is not able to pay its bills; we're standing in the gap. It's not Ridgeland, it's not Byram, it's not the state of Mississippi, it's Jackson.”

— John Horhn, Mayor of Jackson (WAPT)

What’s next

The Jackson City Council will discuss Councilman Stokes' proposal to appeal the federal judge's approval of the 12% JXN Water rate increase at its next meeting on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.

The takeaway

This dispute over water rates in Jackson highlights the ongoing challenges the city faces in providing affordable and reliable water service to its residents, even as regional solutions are being explored. Councilman Stokes' appeal represents an effort to prioritize water access over rate hikes that could further burden low-income households.