Chip Johnson

9:36 PM January 28,2026

Interstate 55 northbound from Batesville to the Tennessee state line is closed until tomorrow morning while MDOT plows the interstate. Please find an alternate route if you are traveling north tonight.

Due to inclement weather, Hernando City offices will be closed on Monday, January 26th. Police, Fire, Ambulance, and Public Works will still be here taking care of our core services to our citizens. Please continue to stay home if possible and check in on your neighbors and friends.

The road conditions in Hernando have taken a turn for the worse overnight. It is advisable to stay home if you can. Desoto County Schools have announced Monday closures. Please check on your neighbors. The non-emergency city number is 662-429-9096, and 911 is reserved for emergencies. My cell phone number is 901-371-7743. Facebook Messenger messages can be missed during weather events, so calling or texting is the best way to make sure I see your message promptly.

Due to the icy conditions we’re experiencing today, Waste Connections will not be running routes. The safety of their drivers and everyone on our roads has to come first.

I know missed pickup days are frustrating, and I truly appreciate your patience and understanding. As soon as conditions improve, service will resume.

I’ll share an update on trash pickup again on Monday. Until then, please stay safe, stay warm, and avoid unnecessary travel if you can.

HERNANDO WARMING CENTER

As a severe winter storm approaches tomorrow evening, the City of Hernando is opening the Gale Center (2601 Elm St.) for a warming center. We will open Friday 1/23/26 at 5pm. Any pets must be kept in their own crate/kennel. Please be safe and look out for the most vulnerable among us as we work together through this extreme weather.

I have called a Special Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Aldermen for Friday, January 23, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. at City Hall.

The purpose of this meeting is to consider a Declaration of Local Emergency in preparation for expected severe winter weather. This action allows the City of Hernando to be proactive and prepared to respond if conditions worsen.

As always, the safety of our residents is our top priority.

VOTE! Tuesday is Election Day in Hernando. We are still a small town where every vote counts; especially your vote! Please call me if you are unsure where your polling place is located. I will see you on Tuesday!

Hernando City Hall is open for absentee voting in the upcoming municipal primary election. This is a great opportunity to make your voice heard, especially if you might not be able to vote in person on election day.

Who Should Consider Voting Absentee?
Residents 65 or Older: If you are 65 years of age or older, you can take advantage of absentee voting and avoid the potential crowds on election day.
Those Out of Town on April 1: If you have plans to be away on April 1, consider voting absentee to ensure your vote is counted.

Why Vote Absentee?
Convenience: Avoid the lines and vote at your own pace.
Flexibility: Choose a time that works best for you to cast your vote.
Ensure Your Voice Is Heard: Every vote counts, and voting absentee ensures your participation even if you can't be present on election day.

How to Vote Absentee
Visit Hernando City Hall: Head over to City Hall to cast your absentee vote.
Bring Identification: Make sure to bring a valid ID with you for verification.
Follow Instructions: Staff will be available to guide you through the process if needed.

Your participation in the municipal primary election is crucial. Make sure your voice is heard and your vote is counted. Don't wait until the last minute—vote absentee today!

Christy and I are thankful for the trust you placed in us in 2021 and again today. I did not draw an opponent and I do not take that lightly. I am humbled that you have again placed your trust in me and the staff of Hernando. I am very thankful for the great team of employees that take care of one of the greatest places to live in the entire country. As we move forward, please remember that you , the citizens of Hernando, are what make our town what is has become. I want to continue listening to your ideas as we move Hernando forward together.

A winter storm warning goes into effect at 6:00pm today. The temperatures will be very cold with expected snow tonight. There is always a chance that some homes may end up without power and heat. We have the Gale Center on standby tonight if anyone needs a warm place in an emergency. If you need access to this warming center tonight, please call my cell at 901-371-7743 or HPD at 662-429-9096 and we will get the building opened by the designated police officer on duty.

👉🏼 Mayor Chip Johnson and his wife, Christy are generously supporting Hernando Meals on Wheels by matching The Parish's $1 donation per plate lunch sold throughout January.

🤩 This means a total of $2 per plate lunch will be donated to this worthy cause, helping to provide meals to those in need.

⏰ Patrons can enjoy a delicious meal at The Parish between 11am and 2:30pm, either by dining in or opting for carry-out, knowing their purchase is making a difference.

👏 A big thank you to Hernando Mayor Johnson and Christy Savage of Burch Realty Group for their commitment to the community and their support of this important initiative.