(Gulfport, Miss.) – Today, Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes announced he will be seeking re-election for a third term. Hewes was first elected Mayor of Gulfport in 2013 on a vision of local growth, regional outreach, coast-wide collaboration, community engagement, and enhancement of quality of life. He often remarks, “If I did anything right, it was putting together an incredible team.” This brand of collaborative leadership provided critical direction for the city, sending the message that “Gulfport is open for business, and geared for a good time.”
Early on, the administration and Council adopted an ambitious plan for growth that included a major roads and infrastructure program, Sportsplex expansion, promotion and creation of multiple, year-round festivals, and the construction of a world-class attraction that has filled a huge void in the Coast’s family attraction tourism market – The Mississippi Aquarium.
A city the size of Gulfport will always have its share of opportunities as well as challenges. There is always work to be done, and that’s why Billy Hewes is more committed than ever before to continue getting the job done for Gulfport. Finding solutions to the growing pains of traffic congestion are paramount, as well as keeping pace with the needs of our first responders and health care workers.
Through strong leadership, planning and a collaborative process that includes people from all walks of life, today, Gulfport enjoys a status as one of the leading cities in the Gulf South, and has received numerous state and national awards for urban renewal, municipal excellence, livability, and affordability.
Serving as President of the Mississippi Municipal League, and at the Federal level on the National Park System and First Responder Network Authority Boards, Billy continues to represent Gulfport’s interests in many capacities.
With grown children and in-laws, Billy and Paula have welcomed their first grandson into their family. The family business, Billy Hewes Insurance and Real Estate, continues to operate after 40 years of service, and in his “spare time” Billy still manages to cut loose with his band, Cut Bait, playing the occasional music festival or fundraising event. For more information about Mayor Hewes’ campaign, visit the website at www.BillyHewes.com and his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/BillyHewes.