First Ward Councilwoman Arlene Robinson is holding a neighborhood meeting at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center on Thursday Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m.

In a press release, the city announced that Robinson and other city leaders want to have a discussion with residents about new opportunities and investment in the first ward.

Robinson says a big focus of the meeting will be talking about a new home rehabilitation project. Funds are available through a grant to provide financial assistance for residents looking to rehab homes. A representative from the city’s Neighborhood and Economic Operations will explain how residents can take advantage of this program.

Another exciting new development concerns the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. Mayor Derek Dobies and City Manager Dr. Patrick Burtch will speak on upcoming renovations to the King Center, a community center for Jackson’s south side neighborhoods. Renderings of the planned improvements to the center will be available for the public to view and give input. The councilwoman also wants to hear from residents about what a new mural in the first ward should feature. Plans call for the new mural to be placed along the Martin Luther King Equality Trail off Francis Street.

Robinson says speaking to residents is an essential part of her role as an elected official. “I want to reach out to constituents to get them engaged in upcoming projects (that are)important for them to be aware of and have their say on it,” Robinson said. The meeting is taking place Thursday Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 1107 Adrian Street in Jackson.