The Simpson County Board of Supervisors convened for their regular meeting on July 8, 2025, addressing a wide range of county business, including updates on infrastructure, economic development, and community concerns.
Chancery Clerk Tim Gray presented several Simpson County Schools 16th Section hunting and fishing leases, which were approved by the Board. However, a lease classified under “other” for Stanley and Theresa Ward and Michelle Patterson at 103 G. Welch Road in Florence was tabled pending further clarification.
County Engineer Greg Bonds reported that C Spire is actively overseeing multiple fiber installation projects in the Magee area, including on Woodgate and Boling Street NE. Bonds also noted that the Dry Creek Road project is awaiting final inspection.
Looking ahead, Bonds expressed optimism about potential 2026 funding for Old River Road and Bridgeport Road.
Community organizer Melinda Green requested permission to duplicate the subdivision plaque for Jacob’s Crossing, a development near Raleigh Road in Magee that has seen no construction in its 15-year existence. Bonds agreed to facilitate the duplication, while Board Attorney Danny Welch advised that numerous legal and procedural steps remain before any development may begin.
Road Manager Jeremy Bolton received board approval for the hiring of Thomas Jaynes as a full-time CDL employee and the promotion of Phillip Goodwin and Jeffrey Lee to full-time status.
The board also approved a $230,000 auction agreement with JM Wood, which includes a 7% fee. Additionally, authority over Heavy Haul/Logging Permits will now shift from the Road Department to Community Development, accompanied by a $50 application fee.
Bolton reported that pre-leveling work on Jupiter Road should be complete by July 8, and that skid plates have now been installed on all 430 Backhoes.
Sheriff Paul Mullins reported the closure of the department’s JAG grant. Tax Assessor Jamie Brewer presented the June Surrender Tag List and Solid Waste Report and reminded residents that tax rolls are now open for inspection through the first August board meeting.
County Administrator Charlie Welch presented the board with a bid proposal for the lease-purchase of a 2025 chip spreader. The board approved the lowest bid from Trustmark Bank at 4.29% for three years, totaling $397,896. A full warranty of $9,700 and a $155,000 guaranteed buyback were also approved.
Welch also reported a declared emergency at the Simpson County Jail due to a failed network switch, which had disabled the facility’s security cameras. The board approved $9,759 for necessary repairs.
Additionally, the board voted to begin future meetings at 8 a.m. and ratified the purchase of culverts for Harrisville-Braxton Road, Terri Lynn Road, Old Magee Road, Oak Street, and additional culverts for future use.
Simpson County Economic Development’s Executive Director Pat Brown shared encouraging news regarding Howard Industries’ continued presence in the ecounty. Brown emphasized that the county’s inclusion in a grant application will help safeguard jobs and support local economic stability.
He expressed concern that the lack of a work-ready local labor force may have contributed to the county missing out on a new physical plant. Brown called on the Board of Supervisors to work closely with the Simpson County School Board, noting that both sides may be operating with incomplete or inaccurate information. He proposed a joint meeting to align efforts and strategies for workforce development.
Pastor Pete Carter of Means of Grace Ministry, a men’s shelter on Calhoun Road in Mendenhall, appeared before the board to address complaints. Allegations had surfaced of residents walking the roads late at night and contributing to local disturbances. Carter firmly denied the claims, stating that the individuals pictured were not residents and that the shelter maintains strict rules prohibiting drugs and alcohol.
“These guys are not in the shape to be walking up and down the road all times of the night,” Carter said, adding that many residents suffer from serious health issues.
Sheriff Mullins acknowledged that while nighttime foot traffic has occurred and some arrests were made, it was not a nightly issue. Supervisor Wayne Womack expressed concerns about rising taxpayer costs due to repeated law enforcement responses and cleanup efforts.
Carter responded, “All we are trying to do is help folks...we are doing our best to do things right.”
Attorney Danny Welch updated the board on Ashwood Road, noting that paving will proceed now that the associated subdivision is complete and the road is being turned over to the county.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss pending litigation before the board adjourned.
For more Simpson County news and updates, visit www.simpsoncounty.ms.
