MS HB392

Allows municipalities with populations of 10,000 or more (per 2020 census) that previously had populations under 10,000 (per 2010 census) to continue electing 5 aldermen instead of increasing to 7 aldermen.

Requires municipalities to adopt and publish a resolution in a local newspaper for 3 consecutive weeks expressing intent to maintain 5 aldermen, with first publication at least 21 days before adoption.

Triggers a voter referendum if 10% of qualified electors or 1,500 electors (whichever is less) file a written protest against the resolution by the specified date.

In a referendum election, voters choose between maintaining 5 aldermen or increasing to 7 aldermen; if a majority votes to maintain 5, the number stays at 5 unless changed by special election.

Takes effect July 1, 2018.