Photo: City of Hernando Planning Director Austin Cardosi is presented a Hero of Main Street Award during the Mississippi Main Street Association meeting. (Courtesy photo)
City of Hernando Planning Director Austin Cardosi this week was presented with a special Main Street Hero Award during the Mississippi Main Street Association’s (MMSA) annual Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, June 17 at The South in Jackson.
Cardosi was presented the award to recognize an outstanding community leader who has displayed an involved commitment to downtown and hid Main Street program. The Hernando Main Street Chamber of Commerce nominated Cardosi for the honor.
Since joining the City of Hernando in 2022, Cardosi has been a driving force behind thoughtful growth and downtown revitalization, MMSA said in the award presentation.
With over a decade of planning experience across DeSoto County, MMSA said Cardosi has worked tirelessly to modernize policies while preserving Hernando’s historic charm.
Under his leadership, the city re-engaged its Comprehensive Plan Update, achieved Certified Local Government status for historic preservation, and completed a database for planning historic records.
Cardosi played a key role in legalizing food trucks while balancing the concerns of local restaurants and led efforts for citywide code adoption through the Bouchillon Institute.
His dedication to infrastructure has reactivated major projects, including the McIngvale Overlay and multiple sidewalk improvements. Overseeing a fully-staffed department that processes 3,100 permits annually, Cardosi’s strategic vision continues to shape Hernando’s future, making him a true Main Street Hero.
Cardosi’s background includes serving as Deputy Director of Planning for DeSoto County, Planning Director for the City of Horn Lake, and a planning intern with the City of Southaven.
