The Simpson County Board of Supervisors convened for their regular meeting on Friday, June 13. With no new business reported by Chancery Clerk Tim Gray, the meeting quickly moved into its agenda.
Bryce Dupree, representing Electronic Credit Card Payment, presented a proposal outlining the potential cost savings and convenience of implementing his company's services for county transactions.
The owner of the franchise. Tracey Bruce. also offered information stating that Simpson County may be out of compliance with the law on surcharge fees on credit card payments.
Bruce said the flat fee of $2 may exceed the 3 percent maximum allowed by state law that was passed in February of last year. She explained that through her company the 3 percent gets added across the board to each credit card payment. While the board showed interest, the proposal was tabled for further review and consideration.
Road Manager Jeremy Bolton reported the hiring of two new employees to the Road Department—Tyrone Weathersby was brought on full-time, and Christopher Varnes joined as a part-time employee. The Board also approved the transfer of Asset #3537, a Dodge Journey, from the Board of Supervisors to the Road Department to support ongoing operations. Bolton gave an update on 540 Jupiter Road and road crews have been mobilized and have begun working on the project.
Board President Danny Craft addressed a growing concern about the theft of county-owned rock, calling it a serious and ongoing problem. He issued a firm warning to the public, stating that anyone caught stealing county materials will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Craft said, “We are having issues with people stealing our slag rocks especially on 28 Highway. Let it be known if we catch somebody we plan on prosecuting because it looks like somebody has been out there with a tractor stealing rocks and we’re not going to tolerate that.”
Looking ahead to community events, the Board approved a request to provide equipment for the “Touch a Truck” event during Magee’s annual Crazy Day, which is set to take place on October 25, 2025. The event is expected to be a popular attraction for families and children.
In infrastructure news, Rankin County has agreed to spray bridges in Simpson County during the week of June 16. Upon completion, Rankin County will submit an inventory and invoice for their services. The Board also noted that the state aid ride-along is scheduled for next week, marking continued efforts to monitor and maintain county roadways.
Sheriff Paul Mullins was approved to make two new jail part-time hires, and for Resource Officers Randy Moore and Buddy Robinson to attend the Mississippi Association of School Resource Officers Conference.
County Administrator Charlie Welch informed the Board of a significant increase in the county’s pest control service bid. In response, the Board directed Welch to seek new bids for a more cost-effective contract.
The board ratified the purchase of various tons of limestone from Warren Paving and Vulcan Materials to be delivered at Old Pearl Road, Highway 13 and Brandon Williamsburg Road, and Highway 28 and James Boykin Barnett Road.
The board authorized the Community Development Department to open a new clearing checking account at Peoples Bank and also approved a one year service protection plan for Sonic Firewall Protection. Trustmark provided the lowest quoted bid at 4.23 percent for the 5-year lease purchase of a 2025 excavator link belt with a service agreement and 60-month buyback guarantee.
The Board approved Welch to post an employment opportunity for one position as an IT Specialist , GIS Analyst, and Inventory Control Clerk.
Supervisor Wayne Womack said it makes sense to find someone capable of handling the combined responsibility. These duties were previously handled by Charlie Welch, who has since taken over as County Administrator.
The Board approved a half page ad for the 2025 Harper Vocational High School Alumni Reunion Souvenir Book.
Board Attorney Danny Welch said the payroll system could use some tweaking and the board agreed to consult with Prince CPA on assisting with payroll updates. Prince CPA will help evaluate the payroll system and make it run more efficiently.
The board entered executive session to discuss litigation before the meeting was adjourned.
