MSU Extension Center for Government and Community Development

04/12/2026

In Leake County, a unified vision is driving measurable progress, with Dr. Rachael Carter of MSU Extension’s Center for Government & Community Development playing a key role.

Through a structured planning process, her work helped align local leaders, use data effectively, and turn ideas into action.

The outcome: downtown revitalization, new business growth, and a stronger local economy.

This is what intentional community development looks like.

Aaron Akers, director of economic and community development for the Central Electric Power Association, says with new small businesses, there has been growth in employment and the tax base, and the services offered by these businesses are giving people hope.

04/06/2026

The Excellence in Tourism Leadership Program graduates are impacting their communities! Hear from recent graduate Elizabeth Russell, Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau's in-market strategist! https://gcd.extension.msstate.edu/educational-programs/excellence-tourism-leadership-program/elizabeth-russell

03/28/2026

03/04/2026

It’s a full week on campus at Mississippi State University.

Assessors are participating in the International Association of Assessing Officers Income Approach to Valuation course, while Tax Collectors are attending Collector of Revenue I.

We are proud to bring local government professionals together for training that strengthens the knowledge and skills needed to serve communities across Mississippi.

02/27/2026

Ridgeland ✅
Oxford ✅
Up Next Hattiesburg

The Spring Certified Municipal Clerk Program training is making its way through the state.

02/03/2026

01/14/2026

Dr. Rachel Carter worked with municipal officials today at the Mississippi Municipal League Mid-Winter Conference focusing on Communtiy Economic Development.

01/12/2026

Homeowners Save Money! Now is the time to file a Homestead Exemption. Visit your County Tax Assessor's office to learn more.

12/31/2025

Big changes that could have impacts for many!

🚨📬 Important USPS postmark rule change effective now.

The US Postal Service has updated how postmark dates are determined.

Under the new rule, a postmark may reflect the date that mail is processed at a regional facility rather than the date an item is dropped in a mailbox or handed to postal staff.

This change can affect documents with deadlines tied to postmark dates such as tax payments, ballots, legal filings, and other time-sensitive materials.

To ensure your mail shows the correct mailing date, request a hand-stamped postmark at the counter, use Registered/Certified Mail, or file/pay online when possible. Plan ahead and mail critical items several days before deadlines.

Read more at bit.ly/3YOt8xU

12/19/2025

Interested in bringing KEYS to Community to your county?

For more than 10 years, the Mississippi State University Extension Service KEYS to Community Program has connected local youth with county government leaders across Mississippi.

The program helps young people understand how county government operates, what it is trying to accomplish, how government decisions affect their daily lives, and the role they play as informed, engaged citizens.

Interested in bringing KEYS to Community to your county?

An in-service training for Extension agents will be held January 13. Contact your local county Extension office for more information.

12/17/2025