The Picayune Police Department officially opened its new Picayune Police Department and Justice Complex on Tuesday. The $7 million facility was financed through a lease-purchase agreement with the South Mississippi Investment Company, facilitated by the Southern Mississippi Planning & Development District. Donald Hart, Mayor Jim Luke, Jason Spence, and Adam Breerwood, representing Pearl River County, are members of the district’s board of directors.

In addition to the lease purchase, state representatives Angela Hill and Mike Ezell secured a $500,000 grant for the project.

City Manager Harvey Miller and Mayor Luke acknowledged the efforts of various departments involved in the project. Mayor Luke noted that the facility was 20 years in the making.

Chief of Police Joe Quave thanked Dan Hensarling Inc. and MP Design Group for their roles in constructing the building.

Mike Ezell, a former law enforcement officer with 42 years of experience, spoke about his ongoing commitment to supporting law enforcement. “My heart is in law enforcement,” Ezell said. “Law enforcement officers do more than just enforce the law; they work toward a better society.”

Council member Anna Turnage of District One commented on the significance of the new facility. “Today marked a significant milestone in our community with the dedication of the new courtroom and police department building,” Turnage said. She expressed support for the police department and recognized the facility as an investment in the community’s safety and the future of law enforcement personnel.

Supervisor Bryce Lott of District Five also commented on the project: “I’m proud of our city and community for recognizing the importance of public safety. I’m thankful for the great men and women in blue that serve and protect the citizens of our county. This is a great step in making sure we maintain quality of life for years to come as Pearl River County continues to grow and flourish.”