When the Simpson County Board of Supervisors held their recessed meeting recently to discuss county business, Supervisor Wayne Womack moved that a proclamation be made in memory of the three men who died during the construction accident on the Strong River Bridge. The board unanimously agreed.
Chancery Clerk Tim Gray presented proof of publications for reverse auction bids for the purchase of a refuse trailer and a 48’ trailer with specifications and warranties.
Sheriff Paul Mullins was approved to hire Ryan May as a school resource officer full time and Shrunda Blackwell as a part time corrections officer. The board approved the Sheriff’s Department to apply for a Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) grant. The JAG grant assists local governments with critical funding necessary to support a range of programs related to law enforcement, prosecution, and other areas.
Tax Assessor Jamie Brewer presented the surrender tag list for 2024. The credit adjustments for December and the real and personal role for December were given to the board.
County Engineer Greg Bonds informed the board that the South West Rankin Water Association is interested in installing some new water lines in the County near River Road. They discussed requirements for the continuation of this project.
Supervisor Wayne Womack directed the board’s attention to the damage created on E. L. Wallace Road from the contractor in that area tearing up the roads and expecting the county to pay for repairs. Board members agreed that the contractors should be liable for any damages and asked attorney Danny Welch to look into the matter. Board President Danny Craft shared concerns of the weight limit on county roads and suggested a bond should be paid to cover any damages done to the road. The board agreed to research the matter further before moving forward.
Gravel bids and striping bids were opened and taken under advisement.
Emergency Management Operations Coordinator John Kilpatrick said that over one million dollars in damage was caused by the recent storms and that there was not a lot of federal money available to help at the moment.
Kilpatrick praised the linemen for working diligently to restore the power grid. He also emphasized that in the event of natural disasters, the first 72 hours of disaster preparedness is on the county.
The board entered executive session to discuss litigation and personnel before adjourning the meeting.
