BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) – An appeal to remove protected trees has been overshadowed by complaints about the city’s homeless population from downtown Biloxi business owners.

The owners of Bella and Altered Reality Brewing told city leaders they want to see action from the city because the growing homeless population is driving away customers.

Biloxi Police Chief John Miller spoke about the issue. From Oct. 28 to Nov. 3, BPD officers responded to approximately 350 calls related to homelessness. 49 reports were taken and 30 arrests were made. He also said his department has started a homeless contact list because of the influx of out-of-towners.

“We asked these people if they would tell us where they came from and some of them are cooperating,” Chief Miller explained. “Top of the list here, a guy from Athens, Georgia. He was not told to come here, but the judge said, “You must be gone by the end of the day.” He bought a bus ticket, probably heard of Biloxi before, got this bus ticket and came to Biloxi.”

The homeless population from Wide water properties was also raised. Fifth Ward Councilman Paul Tisdale said he visited homeless encampments with Biloxi police officers.

“There were a few more people in a few camps,” Tisdale said. “If you haven’t been there to visit, you should make that appointment and go take a look, because something needs to be done. Serious. It’s a serious problem.”

Chief Miller confirmed that his officers are enforcing the violation letter signed by the Broadwater owners. Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich would not say if there are plans to clean up the remaining Broadwater parcels.

Regarding the Moffett Road Cottages Tree Removal appeal, city council members heard arguments from both sides of the issue, then decided to table a vote until the Nov. 19 meeting.

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