Vicksburg Mayor Flaggs bullish on new businesses

Yesterday’s Mayor and Board of Alderman meeting opened with comments from Mayor George Flaggs Jr. about new additions to one part of the city and growing pains and a transition stage for another part.

With the new additions of the Daiquiri Hub, which opened Dec. 14, and Magnolia Jewelers making its downtown debut toward the end of October, Flaggs believes businesses like these and many more in the area are pulling in a different, younger crowd.

“That’s what it’s all about, trying to get downtown right,’ said Flaggs, “not only for visitors but for residents to feel comfortable in going downtown.”

The Mayor also appeared optimistic for Vicksburg’s retail industry. Speaking specifically about the Outlets of Vicksburg, Flaggs said businesses will return. Three of the 10 stores at the mall—Dress Barn, GAP and Kitchen Collection—will be closing their doors before the New Year.

“The outlet mall is in a transition, and when the owner takes shape and the road is completed, you will see investors and businesses come back to the outlet mall,” he said.

Over on Pemberton Avenue, Flaggs has hope for the Vicksburg Mall, mentioning a new vendor, a restaurant, is coming soon.

“All in all, the city is still on the pathway to a great future,” Flaggs said.

He joked with those in attendance at the meeting saying, “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet. … 2020 will bring it all in regards to job creation and new innovative improvement.”