MS HB742

Two or more contiguous municipalities in a county may establish a joint municipal police department by resolution if governing authorities determine it serves the municipalities' interests through improved efficiency, economy, or savings.

A joint police department is governed by a board composed of the mayor from each participating municipality and the county sheriff, meeting at least quarterly.

The board has powers to hire a police commissioner, set budgets, purchase equipment and property, adopt bylaws, sue and be sued, acquire and dispose of property, and execute contracts necessary for department operations.

Joint departments are incorporated by filing an application with the Secretary of State (including municipal names, board member information, and a $50 filing fee) and receive a certificate of incorporation making them a public body corporate.

Each participating municipality must fund the joint department proportionally based on population, and county boards of supervisors may provide additional funding; the joint department has law enforcement jurisdiction across all member municipalities.