By Alyssa Schnugg
News Editor
alyssa.schnugg@hottytoddy.com
U.S. Rep. Trent Kelly will soon have an office in Oxford’s City Hall.
On Tuesday, the Oxford Board of Aldermen approved an agreement with Kelly to have an exclusive office inside City Hall.
According to a letter from Kelly’s staff, the Republican congressman representing north Mississippi wants an office in Oxford since it’s the third fastest growing municipality in the state and “is poised to enjoy future growth.”
“With this growth, obstacles will arrive that will require attention on the local, state and federal level and it is our intent to assist the city of Oxford in facilitating that growth,” wrote Darren Herring, district director with Kelly’s office. “The proposed location in Oxford would also help us provide a more available Congressional office not only to the city of Oxford but to the local entities and constituents in the Lafayette County area.”
The agreement states that the city will not charge Kelly to use an office in City Hall; however, any telephone or internet service would be his responsibility.
Alderman Janice Antonow said while she didn’t oppose Kelly having an office, she would prefer it not to be exclusive and available to any state or federal official to use if they need to use office space temporarily while visiting Oxford.
However, Alderman John Morgan said Kelly is the only one asking for the office at this time and the board should consider his request as presented.
The board approved the agreement with Kelly 5 to 1, with Antonow being the dissenting vote.
Kelly’s office in City Hall will be open on July 1.
