The Simpson County Board of Supervisors recognized longtime public servant Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Smith during its April 6 meeting, presenting him with a plaque in appreciation for his years of dedicated service to the citizens of Simpson County.
Board President Wayne Womack called the meeting to order, followed by prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Supervisors approved the minutes from the March 2026 meeting before moving into the day’s agenda.
Chancery Clerk Tim Gray requested approval of the proof of publication for the county’s 2024 audit. The audit, which includes a synopsis of governmental funds for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2024, is on file in the Chancery Clerk’s office in accordance with Mississippi Code Section 7-7-221. The board approved the request.
An application from Howard Industries Lighting Division seeking a 10-year free port warehouse tax exemption was presented but ultimately tabled for further consideration.
A certificate of completion for Brian Casey Kennedy, who attended the Justice Court Judges Spring 2026 Conference held March 26–27 in Choctaw, was recorded in the official minutes.
Justice Court Clerk Joyce Hicks presented the court’s first quarter report for 2026. January saw a total of 811 cases, including 362 pleas, 109 trials, 110 civil cases, and 230 past due cases. February recorded 735 total cases, while March reflected a decrease to 600 cases.
During public comments, county residents Melissa Booth and Brett Sanders addressed supervisors with concerns about the sale and use of kratom, a substance commonly available over the counter at gas stations. The pair cited concerns over its addictive potential and urged the board to take action. Officials noted that a document addressing the issue is currently being developed and will be presented at a future meeting. Womack thanked the residents for their input.
Road Manager Jeremy Bolton was approved to hire Davis Warren and Curtis Cole as non-CDL employees at a rate of $14.45 per hour. Supervisors approved a motion to declare two county vehicles—a 2012 Ford F-350 and a 2009 Ford F-150—as surplus.
Additional approvals included a school bus turnaround at 603 West Pecan Street. A claim submitted by a constituent for a broken windshield allegedly occurring on March 17 was denied due to insufficient evidence.
The board approved Sheriff Paul Mullins to renew the FingerPro ID palm-print software warranty for 2026–2027 at a cost of $795, as well as Summit Food Service invoices totaling $20,452.26 for March. In personnel matters, Charles Ellingberg was promoted from part-time, non-certified status at $12.90 per hour to full-time certified status at $15.40 per hour.
Tax Assessor Jamie Brewer reported that the solid waste credit report and real property rolls for March have been completed and filed.
The meeting concluded after all agenda items were addressed, with supervisors continuing to evaluate ongoing issues, including the regulation of kratom within the county.
