Category: <span>Newsroom</span>

Local law enforcement officials bid farewell to a longtime face at the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department on Friday as Lt. Robby McClure retired after more than 26 years of service.

 

McClure started his career as a volunteer reserve deputy before joining the Sheriff’s Department full time. Throughout his tenure he has held numerous positions including as an investigator, patrol deputy and more.

 

McClure spent years working as a school resource officer across Lauderdale County School District campuses. Most recently, he served in the Criminal Investigation Division of the Sheriff’s Department, while also serving as the department’s fire investigator.

 

In 2012, McClure was recognized as Officer of the Year by the Meridian Exchange Club for his impact mentoring young students as an SRO at Southeast Lauderdale. He was also named Law Enforcement Coordinator of the Year at the state Crime Stoppers Conference in 2018.

 

Sheriff Ward Calhoun said the department is grateful for McClure’s years of service to the Lauderdale County community. A diligent and dedicated law enforcement officer, he proved himself to be someone who can be relied upon to come through when needed.

 

McClure’s absence will be felt in the department, but all the LCSD family wish him well in retirement, Calhoun said.

Lauderdale County community leaders congratulated a local business on opening its new location in downtown Meridian on Friday as United States Rare Coin & Currency cut the ribbon on its 22nd Avenue storefront.

 

Owner Thomas Stoute said the ease of the move can only be attributed to God.

 

“Truly blessed. It is divine intervention,” he said. “I truly believe that God has put his hands on us to be where we are today. So very humbled, very proud, very excited.”

 

Stoute said the business sees customers from all over the United States who pass through Meridian and stop to visit the store. Having the opportunity to share Meridian’s story and tell visitors about the Queen City is one of the best parts of the job.

 

“We’re proud, we’re happy, we love the community. We want to raise our family here,” he said. “So, this is very humbling and very exciting and looking for a lot more things to come.”

 

Helen Sims, membership director for the East Mississippi business Development Corporation, thanked Stoute and his family for investing in Meridian and Lauderdale County. Not only are they supporting their community, but their business also meets the needs of a unique clientele that otherwise may not come to the area.

 

“What people don’t realize is how many people he’s bringing to our community that are stopping and coming in off the highway and are able to discover our little community,” she said.

 

Meridian City Councilman Tracy Tims also extended thanks to the Stoute family both for investing in their community and inviting the public to Friday’s ribbon cutting. The business is in a great location, he said, and he looks forward to seeing it succeed.

 

United States Rare Coin & Currency is located at 1305 22nd Avenue in Meridian. For more information, visit them online at unitedstatesrarecoin.com.

The theme for Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™), October 4–10, 2026, is “Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”

Lauderdale County is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® to support Fire Prevention Week. This year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.

Many devices used in our daily lives – phones, tablets, laptops, tools, toys, e-bikes, and scooters—run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which store a lot of energy in a small space. If they are damaged or charged the wrong way, they can overheat, start a fire, or even explode.

Mississippi State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney said the Magnolia State has seen more than 15 fires in 2026 due to lithium-ion batteries.

“There have been at least 15 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries this year in our state,” Chaney said. “The way you charge your lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires. It comes down to using simple habits each time you plug in.”

Lauderdale County emergency officials said the way residents charge lithium-ion battery devices can make a difference in helping prevent home fires. Practicing simple habits can dramatically reduce the risk of a fire.

— Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.

— Charge devices on a table, desk, or other hard, flat surface. Do not charge them on beds, couches, or under pillows. Devices and chargers produce heat during normal charging. Soft surfaces can trap heat and block airflow, which can cause the battery to overheat.

— Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, is smoking, or has a strange smell. These are warning signs that the battery may be damaged or failing.

— Unplug your device when it is fully charged. Do not leave it plugged in longer than needed. Leaving a device plugged in too long can increase heat and stress on the battery.

— Charge larger items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside and away from exits.  These batteries are larger and store more energy. If they fail, fires can grow quickly and spread.

— When on a plane, keep your device where you can see it while charging. Do not charge devices in overhead compartments. Do not charge e-cigarettes or vapes on a plane. If a battery overheats or fails, it is important for the flight crew to respond quickly.

Fire prevention starts at home, and residents are encouraged to learn about actions they can take to reduce the risk of a fire. Visit nfpa.org for more information about fire safety. To learn more about lithium-ion battery safety, visit fpw.org.

Lauderdale County supervisors on Monday moved forward with planned repairs to the Lauderdale County Emergency Management Agency building by ensuring continuity of services while the building is under construction.

 

The building, located on 14th Street across from Meridian Fire Station 1, was damaged by rain last month during a storm. In addition to LEMA, the building also houses the county Permit Office, Volunteer Fire Service and E-911.

 

“We did find out that we had a roof leak in our LEMA building,” said Supervisor Josh Todd, who serves as board president. “With all that happening, we had several other entities in that building as well that had to be relocated.”

 

After some consideration, the Permit Office was moved to the old courthouse on Constitution Avenue, while LEMA relocated to the Meridian Lauderdale County Public Safety Training Facility and Volunteer Fire set up at the county Central Garage. Moving E-911 much more complicated, and county leaders decided it would be best for 911 dispatchers to stay where they are.

 

Supervisors on Monday approved the rental of a portable building for E-911 to use as a temporary space while work on their office space is underway. The building will be set up in the parking lot of the LEMA building, which will allow the department access to its radio towers and other communications infrastructure already in place.

 

While the county works to set up workspace for E-911, efforts to repair the LEMA building are also getting underway. The county has already begun advertising for proposals from architects to help design the project and develop a floor plan that meets each department’s needs.

 

For the Board of Supervisors, a key goal of the remodel is to make sure the county’s 911 dispatchers have the space they need, Todd said. Dispatching is a difficult job, and county leaders want to do right by those who provide the essential service to Lauderdale County’s residents.

 

“What we’re really wanting to do is really take care of our dispatchers,” he said. “You know, those men and women are in a tough place every day when they come in, so we really want their space to be theirs.”

 

With the project still in the beginning stages, it’s difficult to set a hard date when the work will be done. Todd said a rough estimate is about 12 months.

 

In other business, the Board of Supervisors signed an agreement to have the remaining Lauderdale County Archives relocated from the Raymond P. Davis Annex to the old courthouse. Once the records are removed, any remaining furniture and miscellaneous items will be cleared out as well as the county moves toward putting the historic building up for sale.

Lauderdale County is highlighting another chapter in the region’s rich history with a new historical marker outside the former courthouse recognizing some of the first Black legislators to serve in the state.

 

“After the Civil War, the Fourteenth Amendment and a new state constitution enabled the people of Mississippi to elect 162 Black men to state or national office over the next twenty years. More than any other state,” the marker reads.

 

Representing Lauderdale County was James Aaron Moore, a prominent religious leader and entrepreneur, who served in the State Legislature from 1870 to 1871.

 

Born in Georgia, Moore was enslaved in Lauderdale County prior to emancipation. After the Civil War, he became a Methodist minister and help organize multiple Methodist churches throughout the East and Central Mississippi, as well as holding several public offices.

 

In addition to the State House of Representatives, Moore served in the constitutional convention of 1868 and as a Meridian City Councilman in 1869.

 

During a violent three-day period in Meridian in March 1871, Moore was among the Black leaders targeted amid escalating racial and political tensions. He later testified before a legislative investigative committee about the violence and fled Meridian for Jackson. He eventually established a successful blacksmith shop in Jackson and remained there until his death in 1904.

 

Also on the plaque is Charles P. Clemens, who represented Clarke County in the State House of Representatives from 1874 to 1875. A freeman from Ohio, Clemens served in the Union Army during the Civil War and later relocated to Mississippi. While in the Legislature, he served on the Public Education, Public Works, Railroads and Federal Relations committees in the House.

The Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors announces applications are now being accepted for the Mississippi Association of Supervisors 2027 County Employee Scholarship Program. The program awards $500 scholarships to dependents of current or retired non-elected county employees.

 

Applications will be accepted from October 1, 2026, through February 1, 2027. Students must meet the eligibility requirements and submit a completed application packet, including GPA acknowledgement, county verification letter and an original essay.

 

The scholarship is open to county employees, family members or spouses of employees who plan to attend college, community college or trade school in state during the fall 2027 semester.

 

For more information about eligibility and application instructions, visit www.mssupervisors.org/Scholarship-Program.

 

The Mississippi Association of Supervisors is a nonprofit support association for Mississippi’s 82 counties. Since its inception in 1908, MAS has been committed to the improvement of county government across our state. MAS members have been instrumental in implementing efficient and effective grassroots government that serves the general welfare not only of the counties themselves, but of the entire state.

Lauderdale County saw better than expected results from the sale of 13 dump trucks at a September auction in Alabama. The sale comes as county officials work to develop a system to minimize costs to run equipment and reduce maintenance on its machines.

 

Road Manager Rush Mayatt said the county is set to receive $1,741,904 from the auction, which was run by J.M. Woods. The figure is an increase of more than $124,000 over the guaranteed amount of $1,610,500.

 

“We had a good bit above the guaranteed amount for our trucks,” he said.

 

Mayatt said the county’s 2022 Mack trucks performed well in the auction, while the International trucks, while newer, were not as popular. That tracks with what supervisors were told by J.M. Woods earlier this year when considering the auction as a potential avenue to sell used equipment. The auction company said Mack vehicles fetch a much higher price at auction than International branded equipment.

 

Supervisor Josh Todd said equipment cycles through popularity like everything else, and Mack trucks are the top sellers right now. In a decade, International could be back on top.

 

“Fifteen years ago, it wasn’t cool to own a Mack. If you owned a Mack you were poor, didn’t have a dollar to your name,” he said.

 

Supervisor Kyle Rutledge, who works with Lauderdale County School District as Assistant Transportation Director, said International is currently leading the pack in school buses.

 

Working with J.M. Woods, Mayatt and the Board of Supervisors plan to roll over the county’s fleet of dump trucks every two or three years. The used trucks will still fetch a high price at auction, while the county will keep fresh vehicles in its fleet.

 

Mayatt said it is a plan that has worked well for other organizations, with some cutting equipment operating costs to near zero or even making a profit in some instances. The hard part, he said, is consistency. For the plan to work, the county must stick to the schedule and buy the trucks that are in demand.

 

In other business, a milling and paving project is expected to get underway next week along Minnow Bucket Road. Mayatt told supervisors APAC-Mississippi, the contractor doing the work, will likely arrive on site Wednesday and begin the process of taking up the old asphalt and laying down new.

 

The paving work comes after Lauderdale County Road & Bridge crews spent several months replacing cross pipes, cutting overgrowth and addressing other issues along the stretch of road.

 

Residents are encouraged to use caution when traveling on Minnow Bucket and keep an eye out for signage and workers.

Emergencies can happen with little warning, but preparing for them does not have to be difficult. For residents of Lauderdale County, being prepared means knowing the hazards that can affect the community and having a plan for their households. Lauderdale County and the Meridian area can experience a variety of severe weather emergencies, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, damaging winds, flooding, tropical weather, extreme heat and occasional winter weather.

 

Emergency personnel and local governments work continuously to prepare for and respond to disasters, but residents can take important steps now to protect themselves, their families, homes and neighbors.

 

Severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and damaging winds

 

Severe thunderstorms can bring dangerous lightning, large hail, damaging straight-line winds and tornadoes. Strong winds can also bring down trees and power lines, damage buildings and block roads.

 

During a tornado warning, move immediately to a sturdy shelter. A small interior room without windows on the lowest floor is generally recommended when a purpose-built storm shelter or safe room is not available.

 

Flooding

 

Flooding is another important concern for Lauderdale County. Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, waterways and low-lying areas.

 

Never drive through flooded roads. Water can conceal washed-out pavement, debris or other hazards, and even relatively shallow moving water can be dangerous.

 

Tropical storms and hurricanes

 

Although Lauderdale County is inland, tropical storms and hurricanes can affect East Mississippi. The primary concerns can include heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds, tornadoes and extended power outages as tropical systems move inland.

 

Extreme heat

 

Mississippi summers can bring prolonged periods of high temperatures and humidity. Extreme heat can cause heat-related illness, particularly among older adults, young children, people with certain medical conditions and those working or exercising outdoors.

 

Prepare Before an Emergency

 

The best time to prepare is before severe weather or an emergency is approaching.

 

Every household should have an emergency plan that answers several basic questions:

 

* Where will we go if we need to shelter?

* Where will we meet if we become separated?

* How will we contact one another?

* Who will pick up children if normal arrangements are disrupted?

* How will we assist older adults, people with disabilities or family members with special needs?

* What will we do with our pets?

* Where will we go if we are ordered to evacuate?

 

Residents are also encouraged to build an emergency supply kit. A basic emergency kit should include:

 

* Water — at least one gallon per person per day

* Nonperishable food

* Prescription medications and essential medical supplies

* Flashlights

* Extra batteries

* Battery-powered or hand-crank radio

* Phone chargers and backup battery packs

* Personal hygiene items

* Important documents

* Cash

* Blankets or changes of clothing

* Supplies for infants, older adults or people with disabilities, as needed

* Pet food, water and medications

 

FEMA recommends at least three days of water and food as a basic starting point. Households should consider their individual circumstances and the possibility that an emergency could last longer.

 

Prepare for power outages

 

Severe weather can leave portions of Lauderdale County without electricity. Keep flashlights, batteries, battery packs and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio available. Never operate a generator inside a home, garage or other enclosed space.

 

Protect important documents

 

Keep copies of important documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical information, prescriptions, financial records and property documents in a secure, waterproof location. Consider keeping digital copies in a secure location that can be accessed if the originals are lost or damaged.

 

Sign up for emergency alerts

 

Lauderdale County Emergency Management has transitioned to a new emergency notification system that allows officials to send alerts to specific areas affected by an emergency. Residents are encouraged to register for the county’s current notification system at lemaonline.com.

 

Consider having multiple ways to receive warnings. Do not rely on outdoor warning sirens as your only source of information.

 

Prepare for family members and pets

 

Emergency plans should account for everyone in the household.

 

Older adults and people with disabilities may need additional assistance during an emergency. Caregivers and family members should discuss these needs before an emergency occurs.

 

Pets should also be included in the emergency plan. Keep carriers, food, water, medications, vaccination records and identification readily available.

 

What to Do After an Emergency

 

The danger may not be over when the storm or other emergency ends.

 

First, check on family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance. Listen to local officials for information about damaged roads, utilities, shelters, water safety and other hazards.

 

If you evacuated, do not return home until officials say it is safe.

 

Stay away from downed power lines, damaged buildings and standing floodwater. Floodwater may contain debris, sewage, chemicals or other hazards.

 

Know Your Resources. Make Your Plan. Be Ready.

 

Emergency preparedness is not about predicting exactly when a disaster will happen. It is about taking practical steps now so that when an emergency occurs, residents know what to do and have the resources they need.

 

A few minutes spent making a plan, assembling supplies and signing up for emergency alerts can make a significant difference when severe weather or another emergency affects Lauderdale County.

Ensuring Lauderdale County departments have the resources they need to provide services to residents is a complex responsibility, and county leaders are recognizing Purchasing Clerk Stephanie Jackson for her work and commitment to professional development.

 

As Lauderdale County’s purchasing clerk, Jackson works with departments and vendors to ensure goods and services are acquired in accordance with county policies and applicable purchasing requirements. Her responsibilities include coordinating bids for equipment and services, maintaining vendor relationships, organizing proof of publication, issuing purchase orders and assisting with purchasing needs of county departments.

 

The Purchasing Department plays an important role in the county’s day-to-day operations. From equipment and supplies to contracted services, county departments rely on the purchasing process to obtain the resources needed to serve the public. Jackson’s work helps coordinate that process while supporting accountability and responsible use of public funds.

 

Jackson recently earned the 2026 NIGP Forum Leadership Path badge through NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement, an organization dedicated to advancing the public procurement profession through education, professional development and resources.

 

The Leadership Path was part of the educational programming offered at the NIGP Forum 2026, held Aug. 23-26 in Columbus, Ohio. NIGP’s 2026 Forum included a Leadership learning path focused on developing skills important to public procurement professionals.

 

Leadership is an important component of public procurement because procurement professionals often work across departments and with a wide range of stakeholders. NIGP emphasizes leadership competencies such as communication, relationship management, problem-solving, driving change, innovation and agility.

 

Jackson’s achievement reflects her commitment to expanding her knowledge and strengthening the skills she brings to her role with Lauderdale County. Her continued education also helps support the county’s goal of maintaining an effective, accountable and professional purchasing operation.

 

Lauderdale County is proud to recognize Jackson for earning the 2026 NIGP Forum Leadership Path badge and appreciates her continued dedication to the county, its departments and the residents they serve.

Lauderdale County residents visiting the Government Complex now have additional parking options following the completion of a parking expansion project designed to improve access to county services.

Additional parking spaces have been added to Lot B, located between the Lauderdale County Government Center and the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department. The expanded parking area is expected to make it easier for residents to find convenient parking, particularly during busy times such as court days.

The project also added 12 new handicap-accessible parking spaces in Lot B, improving access for residents and visitors with mobility limitations. With the additional spaces, the Government Center now has 19 publicly available handicap parking spaces.

The Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors approved the project following concerns raised by residents about limited parking during court sessions and the distance some mobility-impaired visitors were required to travel from available parking spaces to the Government Center.

Visitors to the Government Complex are encouraged to park in Lot A or Lot B. Parking spaces located behind the Government Center are reserved for county employees and should remain available for staff.

For security purposes, public access to the Government Center is limited to the front entrance of the building. Visitors are asked to use the designated front entrance when conducting business with county offices.

Residents planning to vote in the November 3 elections have just one week remaining to register to vote or update an existing registration. Voter registrations must be completed by October 5 to be eligible to vote on this year’s ballot.

 

In addition to regular business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, the Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk’s office will be open 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, October 3, to allow those unable to find time during the week to come complete their voter registration information.

 

Voters can double check their existing registration and see if information needs to be changed by visiting sos.ms.gov/yall-vote.

 

This year’s ballot includes several local races as well as federal midterm elections. Voters will choose candidates running for U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives as the nation decides control of Congress in Washington D.C.

 

Locally, special elections for Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk and District 2 Justice Court Judge will be decided after vacancies in both positions opened earlier this year. Former Meridian Councilwoman Kim Houston and State Sen. Jeff Tate are competing for the Circuit Clerk position, while local Pastor LaBaron Hedgemon and Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Richardson run for the Justice Court seat.

 

Also running locally are Circuit Court Judges Robert ‘Bo’ Bailey and Charles W. Wright, Chancery Court Judges Amanda Trawick Rainey and Austin C. Terry, and County Court Judges Lisa Howell and Veldore Young Graham. All six judges are running unopposed.

 

Additionally, residents of Lauderdale County School Board District 5 will have the opportunity to select their representative on the district’s Board of Trustees. Running for the seat are Michael Wilson and Olivia Leann Vick.

 

Absentee voting for the November 3 election is also underway. Mississippi does not have early voting, but residents with eligible reasons why they cannot go to the polls on election day can vote via absentee ballot. Residents who will be out of town for work, school, caregiving and military service, as well as those 65 and older can visit the Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk’s office to vote absentee.

A dozen law enforcement officers are returning to their communities with new ways to help people after spending a week in Meridian going through an intensive 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team Officer Training. The course, hosted by the East Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team, is specially geared to prepare officers to respond to people in mental health crises and get them the help they need.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department’s Lt. Andy Matuszewski, who also serves as the program manager for the East Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team, said being a CIT officer isn’t a job just anyone can do, but the 12 recruits proved themselves over the course of the week.

 

“This week has been full of a lot of new experiences for our students. Many of them have been in the field for some time, but when you get serious about dealing with crisis issues, you have to look through a different lens,” he said. “You have to learn what the world looks like to the people that you engage with.”

 

Officers are taught about pharmacology, critical clinical states, what it looks when someone is having a psychotic episode, legal issues and more, Matuszewski said. Learning to look at a situation as another person sees it is uncomfortable, but that is what the job requires. If the roles were reversed, he said, how would officers want people to respond?

 

“What if it were you? What if it were your loved one? How would you want people to respond,” he said. “Have the patience that it takes.”

 

Sheriff Ward Calhoun said many of the skills taught during the training are also applicable to other situations officers will encounter on a regular basis. Talking to people, establishing relationships and building trust are essential parts of the job.

 

“Take this newfound knowledge and use it to help people,” he said. “I hope you’re here for that, and I hope you wear a badge to serve others. That’s what we’re here to do.”

 

Meridian Police Chief Malachi Sanders, who had five officers participating in the CIT course, said mental health is intertwined with being a first responder, and it’s a topic law enforcement needs to put more attention toward. Officers graduating from the course will now be able to put their skills to use in the community to help connect people with the resources they need.

 

“You’ll be part of our team of law enforcement professionals that’s going out and being able to recognize these people that mental illness and take the appropriate steps to get them help,” he said.

 

Crisis intervention stretches beyond law enforcement or first responders. It is a community effort, Calhoun said. Mental health professionals, advocates and support organizations, as well as those with previous mental health history all work together to connect those in crisis with help.

 

As CIT officers work in their communities, there will be times when things don’t go according to plan. A crisis center may be full, or some other issue pops up. In those moments, the crisis intervention community is there to help, Calhoun said.

 

“There are other people who can help find solutions whatever the issues are, the challenges that you find,” he said. “You just have to reach out and ask, use those relationships and make that happen.”

 

Vehicles carrying old tires, used oil, electronics and more made a beeline to the Lauderdale County Road Department on Saturday morning as residents looked to rid themselves of hazardous materials on Solid Waste Amnesty Day.

 

Held twice-yearly, the Solid Waste Amnesty Day gives residents an opportunity to properly dispose of unwanted garbage that cannot be thrown out with regular residential trash. Hazardous wastes such as batteries, appliances, solvents and paints are collected at no cost to residents and removed from the environment.

 

“Some of it will go for recycling such as batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and some if it will go for incineration and disposal, some of the more hazardous things,” said Jerry Broadway of Complete Environmental out of Purvis, Mississippi. “Some of the least hazardous, it’ll go to certain landfills that can solidify it and dispose of it in specially lined landfills, which is different than your normal rubbish fields that could leak into your groundwater system.”

 

Broadway said residents are left with few options to get rid of hazardous materials outside of Amnesty Days.

 

Lauderdale County Road & Bridge’s David Mayatt said Amnesty Day is a service the county is able to provide for its residents. Giving people an option to dispose of things the right way is a benefit to the whole community.

 

“We’re just trying to have somewhere the public can bring such as that instead of throwing it on the side of the road,” he said. “We’re trying to keep Lauderdale County a cleaner place to live so everybody can be proud to say they live in Lauderdale County.”

 

In addition to hazardous household waste, Mayatt said the event also serves as a drop off for expired medications and sharps.

 

Saturday’s event saw 215 vehicles with more than 175 old tires collected, according to Solid Waste Enforcement Officer Daniel Mabry. The event also saw a significant amount of electronics, liquids and other materials come through.

 

Lauderdale County supervisors on Monday voted to approve a paving package covering more than 17 miles of roads throughout all five districts.

 

The project, totaling more than $3.7 million, includes portions of Allen Swamp Road, Mt. Carmel Road, Crescent Lake Road, Fisher Road, Vimville Causeyville Road and Russell Mt. Gilead Road. Funding for the project will come from use tax.

 

Road Manager and County Engineer Rush Mayatt said use tax funds can only be spent on roads on the state aid and federal aid networks. From there, it was a matter of prioritizing which roads were most in need of attention.

 

APAC, which was awarded a term bid for paving earlier this year, will be performing the work. Mayatt said he expects the contractor will start work in October with the work completed by the end of the year.

 

While paving will not require closing roads entirely, it will demand one-lane traffic in some places. Drivers are urged to use caution when workers are in the area, pay attention to signage and be ready for possible delays.

 

The paving comes as Lauderdale County looks for ways to improve infrastructure without taking on additional debt. Traditionally, the Board of Supervisors has issued a $10 million bond at the beginning of each term for paving projects; however, the current board opted not to follow that path.

 

The Fiscal Year 2027 budget adopted by the board Monday marks the third straight year of declining debt payments for the county as supervisors work to keep the county operating within its means.

 

In other business, the Board of Supervisors approved two grants for the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department totaling more than $314,000.

 

Sheriff Ward Calhoun said a $300,000 LEO grant from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety Program can be used to get a second K-9 officer for the department, as well as two vehicles for the Drug Task Force. The grant is a 50/50 match, he said, so the county would be responsible for coming up with half the money, around $150,000.

 

The department is also on track to receive an FY22 Project Safe Neighborhood grant for approximately $17,000, Calhoun said. The funds will be used to purchase undercover equipment for the Drug Task Force.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s deputies refreshed their skills at the Meridian Lauderdale County Public Safety Training Facility as the department held quarterly firearms training and taser training throughout the week.

 

The training, which involved running through different scenarios with both firearms and taser, is intended to expose deputies to similar situations they may encounter on the job. Lt. Andy Matuszewski said the quarterly firearms training coincided with the department’s annual taser training, so deputies were able to go through both.

 

Scenarios for taser training are based on real-life situations deputies have encountered previously, Matuszewski said. While the training focused on proper use of the taser, it also required deputies to use deescalation techniques, look toward their own safety and the safety or bystanders, and utilize good judgement throughout the encounters.

 

“The goal was to give our deputies different scenarios in complex environments and have them manage those things safely, not only for themselves, but also for the person they were engaged with and the general public,” he said.

 

Law enforcement officers have several less-lethal tools at their disposal, Matuszewski said, but the taser is unique. Sprays and other options use pain to get compliance, he said, but someone in crisis or on drugs doesn’t always respond to pain as expected. The taser works by interrupting the electrical signals from the brain to the muscles.

 

“By interrupting those at those lower levels, we’re able to stop that person from doing what they wanted to do to where we can safely take them into custody,” he said. “And often times, as we mentioned, these people are not in their right minds, so while we need to stop them, we also don’t want to hurt them anymore than what we absolutely have to.”

 

Instructors change up the practice scenarios each time the training is held, and some situations don’t necessarily require deputies to fire their tasers, Matuszewski said. The goal is to respond to the subject’s actions not to use force.

 

“We look for that lowest level of impact that we can come up with, and sometimes it’s just being a good human,” he said. “Sometimes it’s just talking to somebody and helping them work through whatever their crisis in the moment is.”

 

On the firearms side, Deputy Bolie Stokes said deputies were tasked with navigating an indoor environment in a number of different scenarios. The goal of the training was to help them train how to respond to a threat on their own.

 

In a perfect world, deputies would simply wait for backup, Stokes said, but that isn’t always possible. Should a situation arise where a deputy must respond on their own, having the experience and training will be invaluable.

 

“In a realistic scenario, they may not be able to wait for backup in certain situations. They may have to respond and go in as an individual officer or individual deputy,” he said. “So, they need to see it in a training environment, not when it’s a real thing.”

 

Next week deputies, Meridian police officers and other law enforcement will take even more training as the East Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team hosts another week-long CIT officer certification course. The 40-hour course brings together mental health professionals, advocates, former mental health patients and others to put law enforcement through a rigorous training centered on responding to mental health crisis.

 

Those that pass the course will earn their CIT certification and take the new skills back to their home communities to help others.

 

Keeping track of criminal activity is no easy task, but having established criminal histories for offenders is worth the extra effort. That is why Lauderdale County law enforcement and court officials on Thursday heard from representatives of the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation’s Criminal Information Center about what they need to accurately maintain those records.

 

In addition to being the central repository for fingerprint records and criminal histories in Mississippi, the CIC also shares information with the FBI’s National Criminal Information Center, houses the state’s National Incident-Based Reporting System crime data, processes expungements and more.

 

Maintaining accurate records and ensuring criminal histories are properly reported helps law enforcement and courts know when someone has previous run-ins with the justice system. That data can also show up on background checks and help employers make informed hiring decisions.

 

In November 2021, a Mississippi man was arrested in connection with sex crimes against a child under 12. He was indicted by a grand jury in May 2022 and found guilty by a Webster County jury in June 2025. While under indictment, he successfully applied for a job with a neighboring school district, passed the fingerprint background check and worked there for approximately three years.

 

CIC officials said the incident highlights the importance of establishing criminal histories and properly submitting documents to enter data into the state system. In other instances, criminals have benefited from lenient sentencing because courts aren’t aware they are repeated offenders.

 

To establish a criminal history, the CIC depends on law enforcement and courts to provide fingerprints, arrest tracking number and required information on the fingerprint card. The office also needs dispositions from court clerks or prosecutors once a case is closed. Dispositions include information such as the outcome of the case and sentencing.

 

Throughout the state, some law enforcement agencies and courts are still not submitting their data, CIC officials said. By traveling to different areas and speaking with local officers and courts, the goal is to clear up any confusion about what is needed, educate officials on how to submit records properly and encourage local leaders to participate in the program.

Election Day is less than two months away, and the Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk’s office and Election Commission are ready for absentee voting to kick off Monday, Sept. 21. Voters who will be unable to get to the polls due to work, medical procedures or other conflicts can absentee vote to cast their vote ahead of time.

 

Mississippi does not allow no-excuse absentee voting, and residents must have a valid reason why they need to vote in advance. Eligible reasons include having a physical disability, having to work during voting hours on Election Day or being outside the county for work, school or military service on Election Day.

 

Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk Renee Covert said absentee voting will be open during regular office hours starting Monday, and residents needing to vote absentee can come by and cast their ballot. Additionally, the office will be open from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 24, and again on Saturday, Oct. 31, to give residents a chance to vote absentee outside of regular working hours.

 

The Circuit Clerk’s office will also be open Saturday, Oct. 3, from 8 a.m. to noon for those needing to register to vote. Voter registration is also available during regular business hours. The deadline to register and be eligible to vote in the November 3 election is Monday, Oct. 5.

 

Contested races on this year’s ballot include one of Mississippi’s U.S. Senate seats, U.S. House of Representatives, Lauderdale County School Board District 5 and special elections for  Circuit Clerk and Justice Court Judge District 2.

 

In the Circuit Clerk race, State Sen. Jeff Tate, who previously served as a county election commissioner, is running against former Meridian City Councilwoman Kim Houston, while Kevin Richardson and LaBaron Hedgemon are running for Justice Court Judge District 2.

 

Only residents living in Lauderdale County School Board District 5 will see that race included on the ballot, which includes Olivia Leann Vick and incumbent Michael Wilson.

 

In federal races, Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith is running for another term in office against challengers Scott Colom and Ty Pinkins, and Rep. Michael Guest is defending his seat against Michael Chiaradio and Erik Kiehl.

 

Also on the ballot, Circuit Court Judges Charles W. Wright and Robert ‘Bo’ Bailey, Chancery Court Judges Austin C. Terry and Amanda Trawick Rainey and County Court Judges Lisa Howell and Veldore Young Graham are all running unopposed for reelection.

Lauderdale County residents and first responders gathered in the Arts District Parking Garage Thursday evening to remember and honor the more than 3,000 lives lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks at the annual 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb.

 

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks and eighth year for the Stair Climb, which sees first responders and area residents climb the parking garage stairs 22 times for a total of 110 stories. It’s the same distance first responders on 9/11 climbed to reach victims and get them to safety.

 

Jason McElhenney, a former Meridian police officer and member of the Mississippi Air National Guard 186th Air Refueling Wing at Key Field, who served as guest speaker for the event, said the sacrifice made by first responders during the attacks cannot be forgotten. Their courage and willingness to run toward danger must be remembered and honored.

 

“They set aside their personal needs and desires to go risk their lives to help complete strangers because this was their job and their calling,” he said.

 

Prior to the climb, community members recognized local first responders who have made an impact with Spirit of 9/11 awards. Among those recognized was Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department’s Lt. Andy Matuszewski.

 

Starting off in emergency services in 1988, Matuszewski entered law enforcement in 1994 and joined the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department in 1996. He serves as the Crisis Intervention Team Manager, Accreditation Manager, SWAT Crisis Negotiator, Legislative Liaison and Special Projects Manager. He is also the president of the Mississippi Division of the Southern State’s Police Benevolent Association.

 

Throughout his career, Matuszewski has helped train law enforcement students at the East Mississippi Public Safety Institute and served internationally with the U.S. State Department’s International Narcotics & Law Enforcement Bureau on the Police training mission to Iraq and with an assignment to the United Nations Mission to Kosovo.

 

Also recognized with Spirit of 9/11 awards were Metro Ambulance’s Hunter Staton, Meridian Fire Department Battalion Chief Kenny Robinson, Meridian Police Department Lt. Michael Herrick and UMMC AirCare’s Ally Westrope.

 

As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of 9/11, firefighters, police officers and emergency medical workers throughout the nation continue to run toward danger and put the safety of others ahead of their own, McElhenney said. It is through their courage and their dedication that the spirit of 9/11 lives on.

Lauderdale County officials are encouraging residents to plan ahead for disasters and emergencies as the nation observes National Preparedness Month in September.

 

The week-long observance, now more than 20 years old, promotes education, preparation and planning. This year’s theme is “Americans Stand Ready,” recognizing Americans’ ability to protect their communities and work with unity to help friends and neighbors recover after disaster strikes.

 

Residents are encouraged to make plans in the event of an emergency that includes essential information about everyone in the household, where and when to evacuate, how to communicate if separated, regularly visited locations and more.

 

“It’s not just our family. We’ve got to think about our homes. We’ve got to think about our pets and make sure that we have a plan in case any emergency comes up we’re ready to activate that plan, all members of the family know what that plan is and everybody knows what their part is to do in the home,” said Lauderdale County Emergency Management Director Odie Barrett.

 

Some disasters, such as tornadoes, can’t be fully predicted, but simple preparations can make a difference in the event a tornado forms. Moving patio furniture inside or securing it down can keep it from being blown away, Barrett said, and turning trampolines upside down when there is severe weather can reduce the chance of wind throwing them into other things.

 

Other considerations for emergency plans include bringing pets inside the home or garage ahead of bad weather, knowing what bathroom or interior safe room to gather in, wearing clothing and shoes in case a home is damaged and having helmets to reduce the risk of injury from falling objects are all good things to include in a family’s disaster plan.

 

“In the case something happens and a tornado hits your home and damages your home, where are you going to go? Do you need to go to a neighbor’s house? Does everybody in the family know, ‘Hey, we’re going to meet at Aunt Susie’s,’ or ‘We’re going to meet and our friend Joe’s house?” Where is it that the family needs to go to,” Barrett said.

 

Residents living in a mobile home should identify somewhere to go during the storm, whether that is a friend, family member or neighbor’s house. It’s not that mobile homes are more susceptible to damage, Barrett said, but the open crawlspace underneath creates an opportunity for high wind to lift the structure up.

 

Having an emergency kit stocked with non-perishable food, necessary medication, enough water for every member of the family, important documents, a first aid kit and other items is another way for families to prepare for severe weather, disasters and emergencies. Keeping cash on hand is also a good idea, Barrett said, as card readers need power and connectivity to process payments.

 

Staying informed is vital in an emergency, Barrett said, and residents should make sure they have a way to receive emergency alerts. Small power banks are relatively cheap and can help keep phones charged if power goes out. A weather radio can also help keep people informed of severe weather and other hazards in their area.

 

Lauderdale County residents can also sign up to receive emergency alerts through LEMA’s emergency notification system. The system allows LEMA officials to push out emergency notifications to residents living or located in particular areas of the county, pinpointing hazards such as tornadoes and other events impacting small portions of the county.

 

“If a tornado is in a particular area, we’re no longer warning the entire county. We’re only warning those people who are in that polygon where that tornado is going to be,” Barrett said.

 

For more information about disaster preparedness, building an emergency kit or how to prepare for specific disasters, visit ready.gov.  Residents can also sign up for emergency alerts through LEMA by going to https://lema.app.regroup.com/contacts/sign_up.

Lauderdale County and town of Marion residents will want to plan ahead Thursday as a temporary road closure is planned along Lizelia Road.

 

The closure, which will be in the 7400-7540 blocks of Lizelia near Old Country Club Road East, is needed as Lauderdale County Road & Bridge crews work to replace a cross pipe under the road.

 

The closure is expected to last from 8 a.m. to noon.

 

Drivers are asked to take an alternate route and use caution while in the area.

Lauderdale County supervisors on Monday adopted a budget for the upcoming 2027 Fiscal Year as the total valuation of property rises. The total assessed value of property in the county topped $848.3 million, rising more than $16.8 million over last year’s numbers.

 

For the upcoming fiscal year, which starts October 1, 2026, and runs through September 30, 2027, Lauderdale County expects to bring in approximately $68.9 million, with the largest portion ($39.5 million) coming from tax revenue.

 

Ad valorem tax revenue increased 1.4% ($1.8 million) over the previous fiscal year, and grants from both state and federal sources also grew. Overall revenue increased more than $7.3 million over FY26.

 

Lauderdale County departments are budgeted to spend $78.3 million in FY27, with the largest two expenses being public works and public safety. Roads, bridges and garbage expenses are projected at $24.6 million, while the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, Detention Center, E-911 and Lauderdale County Emergency Management Agency will have combined expenses of $19.1 million. General government expenses such as the courts, administration, tax assessor and tax collector are the next highest expenditure at $18 million.

 

The county will spend less paying down debt than in previous years at $7.8 million, or $1.1 million less than FY26. The reduction is due to a bond being paid off, as well as the Board of Supervisors working to reduce the county’s overall debt.

 

Supervisor Josh Todd, who serves as board president, said the Board of Supervisors has not issued new bonds in the last two terms. Previously boards traditionally issued a $10 million bond to pave roads and fix bridges each board term, which run four years. The problem, Todd said, is that it takes 10-15 years to pay off those bonds, while the work they fund doesn’t last that long.

 

Overall, the Fiscal Year 2027 budget is similar to the previous year, Todd said. Taxes are not increasing, and departments will see similar funding levels. As a board, he said, supervisors have worked hard to make sure the county is living within its means.

 

Lauderdale County looks to see revenues rise dramatically in the near future as the Compass Datacenter’s project moves forward in the I-20/59 industrial park. A fee-in-leu agreement with the company is expected to generate significant revenue for the county, city of Meridian and Lauderdale County School District in the next few years.

 

Todd said the funds will go a long way in tackling outstanding needs throughout the county and providing more for Lauderdale County residents.

 

“It is going to be life-changing, not only for this sitting board but for boards in the future,” he said. “It’s going to be where we won’t have needs. We’ll have wants.”

 

When East Mississippi residents have a mental health crisis, law enforcement with special crisis intervention training are called on to help deescalate the situation and connect them with the help they need.

 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates more than 487,000 Mississippi adults are living with a serious mental illness, and 31,000 adolescents in the state have serious thoughts of suicide. At the same time, more than 2.2 million Mississippians live in communities with a shortage of mental health professionals.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department’s Lt. Andy “Ski” Matuszewski, who serves as program manager for the East Central Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team, said a crisis looks different for everyone, but the goal remains the same—helping others.

 

Crisis intervention traces back to 1988 in Memphis, Tennessee when a young man in a mental health crisis was threatening people with a knife. The situation escalated until law enforcement shot and killed the man. A Black man shot by white police led some in the community to claim racism or police brutality, but it also led to serious discussions about responding to mental health situations.

 

Tasked with finding the solution was a Meridian native Sam Cochran, who was serving as a lieutenant in the Memphis Police Department at the time. Working with community partners to set up a task force, the resulting program is the foundation of crisis intervention training worldwide.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department began looking at crisis intervention research around 2009 as a way to reduce the number of people held in the county jail due to mental health issues.

 

“Jail is not a place to get well if you’ve got an illness of whatever kind. We’re limited on treatments that we can apply and afford within the budget that we’re able to operate under,” Matuszewski said.

 

While the initial goal was to cut down on the number of people in jail, the crisis intervention team idea quickly grew into something more. Utilizing grant funding, the East Central Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team launched in 2012 and continues to train law enforcement throughout the state and beyond. Law enforcement trained in Meridian have gone on to build their own CIT programs in other areas of the state as well.

 

Crisis intervention is a community-based model, Matuszewski said, and the East Central Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team is a partnership with mental health organizations, hospitals, community support groups, law enforcement and others throughout the nine-county area the team serves. A steering committee made up of representatives from each group works to evaluate resources and identify and close gaps where those in crisis may fall through the cracks.

 

Crisis intervention training itself is not an easy course to take, and the officers and deputies who receive their certificates must prove they’ve learned enough to earn them. The 40-hour training includes blocks from community professionals, individuals with lived mental health crisis experience, role-play in which students must put their skills to the test and more.

 

Matuszewski said the training is intended to be difficult to prepare students for the responsibility that comes with being a CIT officer. Under normal circumstances, an officer must witness a crime take place or go to a judge with a sworn affidavit to get an arrest warrant before taking someone into custody. A certified CIT officer can interact with someone in a mental health crisis and determine they are a danger to themselves, others or unable to care for themselves, he said, and have them taken to a crisis center or other location for help.

 

“It’s a huge amount of responsibility. The certification allows an officer to compel an individual into an evaluation for their mental health or substance abuse, what the status is, without the action of a magistrate, which is the only time in our law that we’re allowed to do that,” he said.

 

Making sure students understand the weight of that responsibility, know the proper resources available and the process for connecting people with the help they need is a key part of what makes CIT training so intense.

 

“It’s probably one of the most packed weeks of instruction that most students will ever participate in because we put a ton of information,” he said. “We’re not trying to make clinicians out of cops, but they need to understand what they’re looking at so they can know which door to point these people towards.”

 

Recent changes to state legislation now require law enforcement agencies throughout the state have at least one officer certified in crisis intervention, and all law enforcement officers must have basic mental health first aid training.

 

The East Central Mississippi Crisis Intervention Team tries to hold three trainings per year in the spring, summer and fall, to give multiple opportunities for different law enforcement agencies to participate. Graduates of the program receive a CIT pin to wear on their uniform, and over time, individuals with mental health issues have come to recognize that pin as a sign that particular officer can be trusted to help.

 

Crisis intervention programs are now active in all 50 states and multiple foreign countries, Matuszewski said, and practices continue to grow and evolve. Resources change; people move offices and get new job titles. But every so often CIT officers hear from someone they helped and who overcame their crisis.

 

“One of those visits just makes all the difference in the world,” he said. “When you can make a difference for somebody, that’s what this is all about.”

 

Students who regularly attend school are more likely to succeed than their absent peers, and Lauderdale County officials are encouraging local children to prioritize their education by being in class and on time.

According to the American Association of Pediatrics, students with good attendance tend to perform better on tests, reach higher educational levels, and are more likely to feel they have control over their lives later on. Regular attendance is liked to better career outcomes, higher reading proficiency, increased chances of graduating and improved social skills.

In comparison, chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10% or more school days, is associated with poor health indicators such as smoking and drug use later in life, as well as higher dropout rates and overall lower life expectancy. Students who have poor attendance are also approximately 3.5 times more likely to be arrested or enter the juvenile justice system.

Chronic absenteeism exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the number of students considered chronically absent remains elevated far beyond pre-COVID levels. For the 2018-2019 school year, Mississippi saw a chronic absenteeism rate of 13.1%, data from the Mississippi Department of Education show. When tracking resumed post-pandemic for the 2022-2023 school year, that number had risen to 23.9%.

As of the 2024-2025 school year, the most recent data available, 27.6% of Mississippi students were chronically absent.

The Mississippi Department of Education encourages communities throughout the state to recognize September as Attendance Awareness Month highlighting the importance of getting and keeping students in the classroom. Senate Bill 2103, which was passed by the State Legislature earlier this year, also takes measures to address chronic absenteeism by making changes to the state’s attendance laws.

“Students’ academic and career success hinges on being present and engaged in learning, and we must do all we can to identify and remove barriers to students attending school regularly,” said Dr. Lance Evans, state superintendent of education. “As the MDE gives guidance to districts regarding the updated attendance law, we encourage parents and community members to understand the changes as well.”

SB2103 limits the number of excused absences to five per semester, with parents able to excuse three of them. A doctor’s note or similar documentation will be needed for the remaining two. The legislation also requires schools contact parents or guardians after three unexcused absences and notify State Attendance Officers if a student has five or more unexcused absences.

MERIDIAN, Miss. – Visit Meridian is excited to announce award recipients for the 2026-2027 Tourism Grant Program, a funding initiative designed to support local events, festivals, attractions, and community projects that help drive tourism to Meridian.

 

The Tourism Grant Program provides financial support for projects that attract overnight visitors to Meridian while also enriching the community through sporting events, cultural experiences, and entertainment. The program is designed to assist local partners in promoting their events and initiatives to potential visitors outside of Lauderdale County through targeted marketing efforts.

 

“The Tourism Grant Program is an important investment in the organizations and events that make Meridian and Lauderdale County a vibrant destination,” said Laura Carmichael, executive director of Visit Meridian. “When we invest in our local tourism partners, we are not only strengthening their individual programs—we are strengthening the entire tourism industry and generating a positive economic impact for our community. We are proud to partner with these organizations and help support the continued growth of tourism in our community”

 

Recipients of 2026-27 grant awards are:

·      Magnolia Crappie Club

·      Downtown Meridian

·      State Games of Mississippi

·      Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience – Sipp & Savor

·      Soule’ Steam Museum

·      Meridian Railroad Museum

·      Rose Hill Company

·      Meridian Restorations Foundation (Merrehope)

·      Jimmie Rodgers Foundation

·      Meridian Symphony Orchestra

·      Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian

·      Stronger Together Foundation

·      Hope Village For Children

·      Arts & Community Events Society (ACES)

·      The City of Meridian

·      Queen City Bridge Club

·      The Montgomery Institute

·      Meridian Council for the Arts

·      East Mississippi Veteran’s Foundation

·      Young Professionals of Meridian

 

Since its inception, the Visit Meridian Tourism Grant Program has helped support more than 320 tourism-focused events. To date, Visit Meridian has invested more than $630,000 into local projects and events through the program.

 

Applicants must meet all program requirements, including outlining how the event or project will attract overnight visitors to Meridian. All applications are reviewed through a competitive selection process by a committee of local stakeholders.

 

For more information about the Visit Meridian Tourism Grant Program, visit https://visitmeridian.com/grant-program/

Lauderdale County officials joined community leaders in welcoming a new face to the Queen City as Floyd Council takes the reins as executive director of Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

 

Council, who is relocating from Jackson to Meridian, has decades of experience in libraries throughout the country including Chicago, St. Louis, Washington D.C. and Birmingham, Alabama. He is also an American Library Association Spectrum Scholar, a program which emphasizes higher education and leadership among minority librarians.

 

Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library already has a strong foundation of programs and services, Council said, and its leadership and employees have worked hard to meet the needs of the community.

 

“There’s so many different things, programs, services. I’m looking forward to working under the direction of our board to look at what we do next and how we continue to improve services,” he said. “We already have amazing things going on. I mean, our system is not broken. Our board has been up to this for a minute, but we want to go from good to better to best.”

 

The role of public libraries has changed over the years from a place of quiet study to a hub for technology help, events and more, Council said. In the era of smartphones and tablets, the library is where people turn when they don’t know how to use those devices and a home for basic services.

 

“Libraries used to be a place about being quiet. Now libraries are a place to make noise, to bring your business plan, to use one of our meeting rooms to work on a group that your doing, and for us to help you use resources,” he said.

 

One under-utilized library resource is its genealogy material, Council said, and he plans to hold future programs highlighting that collection.

 

Kim Houston, who serves as president of the Library Board of Trustees, said the board looks forward to seeing Council build on the library’s growth and take the facility to the next level.

 

“We hope that you all would appreciate all of the strides that we’ve taken to make sure that this library is the absolute best library in the world,” she said.

Lauderdale County sees a steady stream of visitors throughout the year as people travel for events, businesses and athletic events, Lauderdale County Tourism Commissioners were told Thursday.

 

Berkeley Young of Young Strategies, which was tapped by Visit Meridian to create a strategic plan for the county’s tourism arm, said the organization is already off to a good start. Meridian and Lauderdale County already have a solid reputation as a travel destination that is known for its arts and culture institutions. Performance venues such as the MSU Riley Center and Temple Theater, along with attractions such as the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience and the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian, are assets coveted by much larger communities.

 

“Overall conclusion is that we have a consistent trend line, that you’ve got great pride of place, that the leaders show great pride in Meridian, you’re a successful travel destination attracting a good mix of leisure, group and business travelers, and sports are in that group,” he said.

 

Young said a survey of visitors found people were drawn to Lauderdale County because of the friendly, welcoming people, culinary offerings, downtown charm, history and cultural attractions, natural beauty and ease of getting around. The survey found visitors overwhelmingly thought positively of their time in the Queen City.

 

Among the dislikes cited by visitors are limited dining options late at night and on Sunday, the city’s unusual road layout, safety concerns in some areas of the city, limited family-friendly nightlife and entertainment, cleanliness and maintenance and a lack of public transit such as Uber and Lift. Young said the spotty rideshare ability is a drawback as most of the area hotels are located near the interstate while much of the entertainment venues, restaurants and attractions are located downtown.

 

Looking at hotel occupancy data, Young said Lauderdale County is building new hotels, but the demand for rooms is going up faster than they are being built. When looking at ways to bring more people to the area, coordinating with hotels is critical to make sure there are places for people to stay.

 

From June 2024 to July 2025, Lauderdale County hotels were 60% full on 230 nights, or 63% of the year. Monthly occupancy rates hit a low in December 2024 at 56%. November and December are usually low for hotels, Young said, but rates are typically much lower at around 20%.

 

“Your market is performing very, very well,” he said.

 

While many communities explore convention centers or other large meeting spaces to increase tourism, Young said that approach may not be the best route for Meridian and Lauderdale County. Large groups like to stay in the same hotel, which is hard to do if most of the local hotels are already more than half full. Alternatively, sports tournaments also bring crowds, but individual teams and families are usually fine staying at different hotels, he said.

 

“If you have a hundred room Hampton Inn that runs 60% occupancy, that means there’s 40 rooms left that they can work with,” he said. “They can take a few teams at any time, but they can do what we call run of the house.”

 

According to the strategic plan, strategies Visit Meridian can use to further grow the area’s visitor base include increasing the number of visitors who stay overnight, protecting and expanding the number of group businesses and meetings coming to Meridian, advancing sports tourism, working other improve the overall visitor experience through advocacy and cooperation with community partners and leading as a destination management organization.

 

Lauderdale County is in a good position with its visitor base and is poised to make even further advances throughout the next few years. Working together as city, county and community organizations to advocate for the area, creating a positive image for local residents and coordinating to give visitors a next-level experience will help move the needle in the right direction.

 

“From the visitors perspective, it really looks good,” he said, “But there’s big opportunities to keep going.”

MERIDIAN, Miss. — Lauderdale County residents will have an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming hunting season while supporting local businesses during Mississippi’s annual Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday, scheduled for Friday, Aug. 28, through Sunday, Aug. 30.

During the three-day holiday, sales tax will not apply to eligible firearms, ammunition and certain hunting supplies, as outlined by the Mississippi Department of Revenue. The 2026 holiday has been officially scheduled for Aug. 28-30.

The tax exemption includes eligible items such as ammunition, firearms, bows, crossbows and certain firearm and archery accessories. General hunting supplies, including game calls, apparel, scent elimination products, attractants and decoys, are not eligible for the exemption.

Unlike Mississippi’s annual back-to-school sales tax holiday, the Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday does not place a per-item price cap on eligible purchases.

The exemption applies to qualifying purchases made in person, by mail, by telephone or online, provided the item is purchased and paid for during the holiday period. Eligible items may still qualify even if delivery occurs after the sales tax holiday has ended.

Lauderdale County is home to several businesses serving hunters, sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts. Residents are encouraged to consider shopping locally during the holiday at businesses such as Garrett’s Sports Center, Rock House Gun & Pawn and Queen City Archery.

Residents are encouraged to check with individual retailers regarding their available inventory, store hours and items qualifying for the sales tax exemption.

For additional information and a complete list of eligible and ineligible items, visit the Mississippi Department of Revenue’s Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday information.

A Lauderdale County teen is heading into the next phase of his life well prepared after members of Collinsville Fire & Rescue on Thursday recognized Payton Simanek as its Junior Firefighter of the Year.

 

Capt. Randy Griffeth said the department chooses a high school senior from its junior firefighter program each year and awards them a $500 scholarship to put toward college expenses. This year, however, was slightly different as the recipient looks to enter an electrician apprenticeship program instead. After talking with Simanek, the department chose to gift him tools he will need to be successful in his chosen career.

 

“As a department, we couldn’t be more proud of you. The skilled trades are built on discipline, commitment and craftsmanship, the very same qualities we try to instill in our junior firefighters,” he said.

 

Collinsville Fire and Rescue started its junior firefighter program a little over a year ago with the goal of mentoring youth and teaching them the skills and values they will need to be successful, Fire Chief Tony Grice said. The program takes teens from local schools and introduces them to the training and camaraderie of the volunteer fire service.

 

“Our goal was simple, to help shape young men and women into people of character, discipline and service,” he said. “We want them to succeed in whatever path they choose, and we want Collinsville Fire and Rescue to be a positive part of that.”

 

Moving from Nebraska to Mississippi around three years ago with no friends or family in the area, Simanek said he struggled to adjust. Joining the junior firefighter program was a lifeline, he said, and through it he gained the support and skills he was missing.

 

“I just want to say thank y’all for giving me the opportunity. When I came here, I was struggling both physically and mentally, and y’all just open armed me, and it was like my second family,” he said.

 

The tools gifted to Simanek are shiny and free of marks now, Griffeth said, but that will soon change. Every scratch, scrape and ding will carry a story, and each story will be about another person helped or another step in Simanek’s journey.

 

“And when that day comes when you open up the toolbox and you see those worn handles and scratched up tools, we hope that you will remember where they came from. Remember this department. Remember the instructors and firefighters who poured into you. Remember the younger junior firefighters who look up to you,” he said. “Remember that leadership is never about titles. It’s about serving others and remember that you will always have a family here at Collinsville Fire and Rescue.”

 

Lauderdale County and Meridian leaders celebrated the return of an iconic piece of the Queen City’s history on Thursday with the unveiling of the historic E.F. Young Jr. Hotel sign outside the Holbrook building in downtown Meridian.

 

Opened in 1931, the E.F. Young Jr. Hotel served as both a pillar of the city’s African American Business District and a lifeline for Black travelers as one of few places in the region where they could safely stay. The sign was removed prior to the hotel’s demolition in April 2023 after city officials declared the building unsafe.

 

Lauderdale County and Youth Court Judge Veldore Young-Graham, who is a descendant of E.F. Young Jr., said the sign is not just a piece of history but part of the soul of the city’s African American District.

 

“Though we felt the deep sting of seeing this building condemned and finally demolished, today reminds us that brick and mortar can crumble, but a sacred legacy cannot be erased,” she said.

 

Dr. Otis Gowdy, who is leading efforts to restore the Holbrook building and worked to save the E. F. Young Jr. Hotel sign, said the sign represents much more than one business or block. It is a jewel in the Queen City’s crown, he said, and a beacon of inspiration.

 

“So let me be clear, it’s not trash. It’s treasure. It’s not forgotten. It’s forging on. It’s not dimmed. We’re gonna light it,” he said. “What was thrown away has become the head corner, not just physically but symbolically. That’s what preservation is, taking what could have been disappeared and giving new life.”

 

Lauderdale County Supervisor Joe Norwood said Fifth Street, the heart of the African American Business District, was the place to be growing up. The thriving block featured all manner of businesses, eateries and entertainment and drew Black residents from all areas of town.

 

“Thank you for investing in this community,” he said to Gowdy, “And to those of you who are in and out and around town, y’all help us help ourselves to make sure that we make this neighborhood thrive like it once thrived before.”

 

State Rep. Greg Elliot said he too used to enjoy coming to Fifth Street as a child. It was Meridian’s Bourbon Street or Times Square, he said, and there was always something going on.

 

“It was shoulder to shoulder on a Saturday. You couldn’t hardly move around,” he said.

 

Revitalization and rejuvenation are ramping up in Meridian thanks to residents like Gowdy who are willing to invest in the community, said Meridian Mayor Percy Bland. City leaders, he said, are working to continue and grow that momentum throughout the city and bring the energy and excitement of downtown to all neighborhoods.

 

“We want to bring this energy to each and every block of the city of Meridian,” he said.

 

Significant improvements have already been made to the Holbrook building, but much more is left to do, Gowdy said, and doing it alone simply isn’t possible. To succeed in fully restoring the building, others will have to donate time, energy and funds into the project.

The qualifying period for candidates in the 2026 General Election closed at 5 p.m., with two candidates qualified for each local race.

 

Both Lauderdale County Court Judges Veldore Young-Graham and Lisa Howell have qualified to run for an additional term. They will be unopposed on the November 3 ballot. Both Graham and Howell also serve as Youth Court judges as well.

 

For Lauderdale County School Board District 5, incumbent Michael Wilson has qualified to run again and faces challenger Olivia Leann Vick.

 

Two special elections this year for Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk and Justice Court Judge District 2 have also seen two candidates each. State Sen. Jeff Tate and former Meridian City Councilwoman Kim Houston will face off in November for the Circuit Clerk seat, while LaBaron Hedgemon and Kevin Richardson will appear on the ballot for Justice Court Judge.

 

Hedgemon was appointed in January to serve as interim Justice Court Judge following the death of Ondray Harris Sr.

 

The winning candidates for both Justice Court Judge and Circuit Clerk will serve the remainder of the term ending Dec. 31, 2027. They will be up for reelection along with other county officials next year.

 

November’s election will also see contests for both Chancery and Circuit Court judges. In the 12th District Chancery Court, current Chancellors Austin C. Terry and Amanda Trawick Rainey are running unopposed for another term. In Circuit Court, Judges Robert T. “Bo” Bailey and Charles W. Wright Jr. are also free from opposition on the ballot.

 

Also appearing on the ballot this year will be races for U.S. House Of Representatives and one of Mississippi’s two U.S. Senate seats. A seat on the State Court of Appeals is also set to be decided.

Motorists will want to think twice about driving impaired as the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department cracks down as part of a national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. Starting Wednesday, Aug. 19 and continuing through Labor Day weekend, the annual enforcement period emphasizes safe driving.

 

Lt. Kris Cokel said the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is held twice a year around Labor Day and again around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

 

“What we do is just enhanced or increased traffic enforcement with emphasis on DUI,” he said.

 

Throughout the campaign, Lauderdale County deputies will hold sobriety checkpoints and safety checkpoints throughout the county to find drivers under the influence and identify unsafe driving practices. Sobriety checkpoints, he said, are specifically focused on impaired drivers, while safety checkpoints are primarily geared toward proper licensing, equipment, insurance and other requirements.

 

While checkpoints are intended to find specific violations, Cokel said deputies will be enforcing the law and any other illegal activity they uncover will be handled as well.

 

Drivers should also be aware of a recent change in state law that went into effect July 1. Senate Bill 2314, which was passed earlier this year by the State Legislature, updated language to clarify drivers must physically hand law enforcement their driver’s license upon request. Previous language only said drivers had to present their license but did not specify what that meant.

 

“Every licensee shall have the required license in his or her immediate possession at all times when operating a motor vehicle and shall display the same by handing the license to a law enforcement officer for inspection, upon demand of a justice court judge, a peace officer or license examiner or other authorized employee of the commissioner,” the bill reads.

 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving kills one person in America every 44 minutes. That’s roughly 12,000 fatalities each year.

 

Mississippi Department of Health data show approximately 150 people die in crashes that involve alcohol-impaired drivers throughout the state each year.

 

While the legal limit for impaired driving is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08, the effects of drinking begin at much lower levels. At a BAC of 0.02, drivers will already have trouble performing multiple tasks at the same time and see declining visual abilities. At a BAC of 0.05, drivers will have difficulty steering and experience reduced coordination, ability to follow moving objects and reaction in emergency situations, according to the NHTSA.

 

Cokel said residents are encouraged to use common sense and have a designated driver if they planned to be drinking. Marijuana use, even with a valid medical marijuana card, can still make drivers impaired as well.

 

In stay safe on the roads, the NHTSA encourages residents to:

•     Before drinking, plan a safe and sober ride home.

•     Don’t let someone get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking.

•     If you’re hosting a gathering, make sure all your guests have a sober ride home.

 

If you see an impaired driver, call 911. And always wear your seat belt — it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.

Lauderdale County residents are encouraged to avoid outdoor burning as a combination of high heat and drought create ideal conditions for fire to get out of control.

Fire Coordinator Allan Dover said the best thing residents can do is hold off on burning until conditions improve. If burning must be done, he said it’s critical residents stay with the fire the entire time and have water standing by to extinguish the flames if needed.

“We would prefer that they not burn,” he said.

Wind also plays a factor in assessing fire danger, and anything over five miles per hour, combined with drought conditions, can cause fire to quickly grow out of control. Even striking a rock with a lawnmower can start a small fire in some instances.

Dover said the dangerously high temperatures pose another challenge for county firefighters as they try to respond to grass and brush fires. A volunteer firefighter was taken to the hospital last week due to dehydration while fighting a fire in southern Lauderdale County.

Without rain, Dover said Lauderdale County will likely see the number of fire calls increase.

In South Mississippi, a woods fire in Jackson County has burned more than 1,400 acres as firefighters work to contain the blaze. The fire was 65% contained as of Tuesday, the Mississippi Forestry Commission announced.

“This fire is a reminder of how quickly a wildfire can become a serious threat under the conditions we’re experiencing,” said State Forester Russell Bozeman. “Our firefighters are prepared to respond, but wildfire prevention begins with all of us. As we move toward fall wildfire season, we’re asking every Mississippian to pay attention to the weather, follow burn bans, and avoid any activity that could accidentally start a wildfire.”

Additionally, the Mississippi Forestry Commission has issued burn bans for Copiah, Simpson, Franklin, Lawrence, Jefferson Davis, Pike, Walthall and Grenada counties.

“Right now, one spark is all it can take to start a wildfire,” said Randy Giachelli, MFC Fire Chief. “If it’s hot, dry, or windy, don’t burn. Something as routine as burning debris, using equipment that creates sparks, or improperly disposing of hot coals can have serious consequences when vegetation is this dry. The best wildfire is the one we never have to fight.”

Nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by humans, making prevention especially important during periods of elevated fire danger. MFC urges residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid outdoor burning on hot, dry, or windy days.
• Obey all county burn bans and local burning restrictions.
• Never leave an outdoor fire unattended.
• Make sure campfires, charcoal, and ashes are completely extinguished and cold before leaving or disposing of them.
• Use extra caution with equipment that can produce sparks near dry grass, leaves or other vegetation.
• Properly dispose of smoking materials and never discard them from a vehicle.
• Keep vehicles and equipment away from tall, dry grass where hot exhaust systems could ignite vegetation.
• If conditions are questionable, wait to burn.

Anyone who sees a wildfire should report it immediately by calling 911.

Lauderdale County residents are encouraged to bring their old paint, stale gas, used oil and other hazardous  materials for proper disposal at the Solid Waste Amnesty Day.

 

The event, set for 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Lauderdale County Road Department, 210 Windmill Drive, is a twice yearly opportunity for those living in the county to get rid of waste that residential garbage service won’t accept. That includes materials like oil, solvents and paint, batteries, tires, electronics and more.

 

“Disposing of hazardous materials can pose a challenge since it can’t go with regular trash. We want to enable county residents to get rid of hazardous garbage the right way, keep trash off our roads and bridges and improve the look of our county,” said Lauderdale County Solid Waste Enforcement Officer Daniel Mabry. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of Amnesty Day if they’re able.”

 

Solid Waste Amnesty Day is free for county residents living outside the Meridian city limits. The city of Meridian hosts separate amnesty events throughout the year as well, giving everyone a chance to participate.

 

Items accepted during Amnesty Day include:

— stale gasoline

— pesticides/herbicides

— solvents

— used oil (limit of five gallons)

— paint

— fertilizer

— appliances

— TVs/computers

—  brake fluid

— antifreeze

— sharps

— batteries

— paint thinners

— fluorescent bulbs

— expired medication

— tires (limit of five passenger tires per household)

 

For more information about Amnesty Day or questions about what can be disposed of contact Lauderdale County Solid Waste Enforcement Officer Daniel Mabry at 601-816-9723.

Lauderdale County community leaders paid tribute to three female trailblazers on Friday as the Women’s Alliance of Meridian hosted a Celebration of Women Leaders at The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience.

 

Carolyn Smith, Farida Lala and Veldore Young-Graham were recognized for their legacies of breaking down barriers and forging their own paths of opportunity and service in the community.

 

Lala, a native of Surat, India, moved to the United States in 1974. She and her husband, Abdul Lala, relocated to Meridian in 1977 and in an impulse purchase in 1980, she bought a small, rundown 10-room hotel. Since then, Farida, Abdul and their children have turned their venture into business into Lala Enterprises, which owns more than seven hotels in Mississippi and Alabama and continues to grow.

 

Abdul Lala said his wife of more than 50 years possesses the unique ability to both pursue opportunities while being flexible enough to adapt and pivot when presented with challenges.

 

“Farida, you have been my great partner for 52 years. You are an amazing mother to our children. I don’t think I would be where I am today without your help, support and hard work. You are a dreamer with a plan, grounded in purpose but flexible enough to pivot when the ground shakes,” he said. “I love you. I would not be where I am today. Thank you for all you did for us.”

 

Smith has been involved in the Meridian and Lauderdale County community for the better part of 70 years, starting with her banking career at what is now Trustmark Bank in 1955. She retired from banking in 2002, and in 2009 became the executive director for the State Games of Mississippi and still serves as a consultant to the Games when needed.

 

In addition to State Games, Smith has served with the United Way of Lauderdale County, the Jimmie Rodgers Foundation, East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, American Cancer Society and more.

 

“We owe her a lot in our community, and also, I would say how many people 90 years old are still working,” said Ann Alexander, a longtime friend of Smith. “And God has blessed her with good health to continue, and God has also blessed our community by giving us Caroline. And she’s happy when she’s working hard for the community. I can attest to that.”

 

Graham, who currently serves as County and Youth Court Judge for Lauderdale County, has left a trail of shattered ceilings throughout her career becoming Lauderdale County’s first Black female public defender, first Black assistant district attorney and first Black County and Youth Court judge. In 2009, she started the first drug court in Meridian as well, bringing new resources and opportunities to help those suffering from addiction.

 

Judge Lisa Howell, a longtime friend of Graham and fellow County and Youth Court Judge, said Graham has always fought for the best possible outcome for the people she serves, and that has stayed the same through her time as a public defender, prosecutor and now judge. She is committed to helping connect those in need with the resources to help them.

 

Graham said she realized years ago that her main competition is herself, and she tries each day to push herself just a little bit further in the service of the community. The daughter of Civil Rights icon Charles Young Sr. and granddaughter of prominent Black businessman E.F. Young Jr., she said she wants to make her family proud but also make Meridian a better place to live.

 

“I’m all about history and legacy and making sure that we continue those things, and I encourage everybody else to do it because in my life there are no big Is and little Us. Everybody is somebody,” she said. “I have always been taught that success is not final and failure is not fatal, so I am not afraid to fail. But I am also not impeded or think that I need to stop just because I succeed at something.”

 

There are no shortcuts, Graham said. Achievement is the result of hard work, courage and consistency. Luck has nothing to do with it.

Members of the Lauderdale Emergency Management Agency Public Safety Dive Team spent time on the water at Bonita Lakes Wednesday learning how to search more efficiently and guide divers more accurately using sonar technology.

 

Utilizing both side scanning and depth scanning sonar, first responders can narrow down a large search area to within a few feet and put divers within arm’s reach of the object or person they are trying to recover.

 

LEMA Director Odie Barrett said the team, which is made up of members from LEMA, Lauderdale County Fire Department and Meridian Fire Department, recently purchased Garmin live scopes, new trolling motors and Hummingbird sonar. Wednesday’s training was an opportunity to see test out the tools and see the impact they will have.

 

“Seeing the two technologies that are different technologies and how they work different and what we’re actually looking at is a big plus for the team,” he said. “It’s a big plus for the county and the city to have this kind of technology for our teams.”

 

Helping the team was Rankin County Dive Team member Brett Ishee, who has previous experience putting the technology to work in real emergencies. Ishee shared his knowledge with the group and helped answer questions Lauderdale County first responders had about the new tools.

 

Much of the technology can be found on a well-equipped bass fishing boat or similar vessel, with both the Garmin live scope and Hummingbird sonar being used to find underwater structure, schools of fish and mapping the lakebed. With a few changes in how they’re set up, those same tools become powerful aids in finding people.

 

The Public Safety Dive Team is most often called out to recover victims of drownings or other water-related incidents. While uncommon, they do happen, Barrett said, and being able to respond quickly and efficiently is crucial.

 

“You know, the last thing we want to be is called out as a dive team. Last year we had four recoveries. This year we’ve had one. Sonar was used in each one of them,” he said. “And now, with the new technology that we’ve got, the better technology, hopefully we can find what we’re looking for in a shorter amount of time.”

September is voter registration month, and the Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk is reminding voters they need to be registered where they live to vote at the correct precinct. Ballots must be cast at the correct precinct for their vote to count.

 

Residents are urged to check the status of their voter registration. If they have moved out of town, across the street, changed apartments or maybe to another county, please let the Circuit Clerk office know.

 

The Circuit Clerk’s office has received a list of voters from the Secretary of State office that were sent from the USPS office that has made several voters inactive. Residents can reach out to the Circuit Clerk office at 601-482-9731 to check on their voting status.

 

The Circuit Clerk’s office will be open on Saturday, Oct. 3 for voter registration. The deadline to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 5.

 

Lauderdale County voters will participate in the general election on Nov. 3 for County Court Judge and School Board District 5, as well as U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.

 

That ballot will also include a special election for Justice Court Judge and Circuit Clerk. The deadline to qualify for School Board, Justice Court Judge and Circuit Clerk is Aug. 20.

 

Lauderdale County residents are invited to pay their respects to America’s military service members this fall as America’s Freedom Tribute comes to the East Mississippi Veterans Park.

 

Set for Oct. 9-11, the event will bring the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall, an 80% replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. The wall stands more than eight feet tall and stretches more than 360 feet long, with the names of more than 58,300 Americans who died in the Vietnam War.

 

In addition to the Wall, the East Mississippi Veterans Park will also host the Cost of Freedom Tribute, which recognizes the nation’s history of military service since World War I. Made up of 17 panels, the display includes stories, photographs and information to help viewers understand the cost of armed conflicts.

 

Mike Couch, one of the organizers for the event, said the Tribute is going to be an activity residents throughout East Mississippi are not going to want to miss. From a worship service to benefit concert, the schedule will both honor those who served and educate the public about their sacrifice.

 

“We’re going to honor over 620,000 soldiers and heroes that gave their lives so we can have the freedoms we have today,” he said. “We’ve got a lot planned. We’re pulling out all the bells and whistles. It’s going to be a huge event.”

 

America’s Freedom Tribute will kick off Friday, Oct. 9, with an opportunity for field trips to come to the Veterans Park and view the exhibits. Both the Vietnam Memorial Wall and Cost of Freedom Tribute will be on display for children to learn and explore the nation’s history.

 

On Saturday, a ceremony will take place featuring the 41st Army Band playing a sunset concert, Couch said. The event will conclude Sunday with a worship service, including a color guard, bagpipes and 21-gun salute as local veterans send the two traveling exhibits on to their next destination.

 

While in Meridian, the event will be open 24-hours a day, beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 9, and ending at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11.

 

“It’s going to be huge. We’re going to have a veteran’s resource area set up, so like I said, invite everybody,” he said.

 

More information about the event and volunteer opportunities can be found at strongertogetherfoundation.org/freedom.

Americans who have served their country in the military have additional resources to assist them after the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 56 in Meridian dedicated its headquarters in Highland Park Thursday following a series of renovations.

 

Darrell Whited, who serves as second in command for Chapter 56, said the chapter has worked hard to renovate its facility over the past few months and bring new energy into the organization.

 

“It’s all been fixed. Every bit of it,” he said. “We’ve been working hard for the last two or three months.”

 

Through the DAV, veterans and active-duty service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, will have access to trained veterans service officers, counselors, special programs and more, Whited said. The chapter also looks to host classes on healthcare, combatting domestic violence and other topics as it works to connect the area’s veterans with the resources they need.

 

“When you first join the military and take the oath and raise your right hand, you are covered here,” he said. “You come by here and ask a question, we’ll try to solve it for you.”

 

Whited said three veteran service officers will man the facility, and each Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. will be dedicated for walk-in clients. Any veteran with a question, concern or need can pop in and meet with someone who will work to find them help. VSOs will also take appointments throughout the week as well.

 

With three VSOs at Highland Park and three at the Velma Young Community Center, DAV Chapter 56 is making strides to make sure the area’s veterans get the help they need and the care they’ve earned.

 

“I just encourage veterans to take advantage of this. There’s so much that’s available here to help veterans, and of course, if we help veterans, they help us back,” said Mary Ann Hollingsworth, Veterans of Foreign Wars District Commander. “And so, I just encourage people to take advantage of it and to share the information with veterans.”

 

Whited thanked the community for showing up to Thursday’s dedication and showing support for what DAV Chapter 56 is trying to do.

 

“We’re going to do our job. We’re going to do it, and it’s all free,” he said. “We don’t want nothing in return except for the satisfaction of we’ve helped that veteran.”

After a summer of speeding by empty campuses, drivers are urged to use extra caution while traveling near local schools as Lauderdale County students returned to classrooms Thursday for the start of another school year.

Adjusting back to regular school traffic typically takes a few weeks, and congestion caused by pick-up and drop-off lines is expected near school campuses throughout the county. Law enforcement officials said residents are encouraged to leave early and allow extra time for traffic.

To help drivers adjust safely, Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Deputies will be monitoring traffic for the first few days of school and may be directing vehicles to help relieve any backlogs. Drivers are urged to watch for law enforcement and follow deputies’ commands.

Meridian Public School District students will join Lauderdale County students in returning to school on Friday, August 7, while Lamar School students’ first day will be Thursday, August 13. Russell Christian Academy has already welcomed students back, with the first day being Tuesday, August 4.

 

Lauderdale County community leaders were encouraged to continue efforts to grow the area’s cultural identity at a Business After Hours event Tuesday organized by the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation.

 

Hosted at Soulé Steam Museum, the event provided an opportunity for networking, as well as a presentation by Stennis Institute Project Director Chance McDavid. McDavid, who also serves as president of the Mississippi Main Street board, has a wealth of knowledge about community development, strategic planning, civic engagement and more.

 

“For 20 years plus, I have worked under the belief of asset-based community development. In other words, looking at what communities have as opposed to what they don’t have,” he said. “And it’s very, very important to realized that the people, their knowledge, skills and abilities, and the resources they bring to the table are the very things that build community, and that’s where we start.”

 

McDavid encourage local leaders to “think big and start small,” by leveraging the assets already present in the community and making small but impactful change. Starting could be something as simple as adding a bench along a walkway or installing planters to break up a monotonous stretch of wall.

 

“Whether it’s an underutilized building or maybe a closed bridge over a beautiful creek, or a school that is closed, or a playground that’s been sort of neglected. All of those things can be looked at as challenges in the community, but they can also be looked at as opportunities,” he said. “How do you take those underutilized assets and work with them?”

 

Throughout the United States, small communities have come up with creative ideas to not only address challenges in the community but also to leverage local history and culture to create events and attractions that draw thousands of visitors. McDavid said Lauderdale County leaders can look at those successes and try to incorporate some of the ideas in a way that works locally.

 

Great things are happening in Meridian, McDavid said, but the key to successfully growing a community is the people. Events can bring in visitors, businesses can bring shoppers and attractions can draw vacationers, but growth needs residents advocating for their community.

 

“You are your best ambassador of your community. A lot of people think that’s tourism’s job, that’s the chamber’s job, that’s main street’s job, it’s the economic developer’s job, it’s the mayor’s job,” he said. “No, it’s all of our jobs to be ambassadors of the place we call home. We have to love where we are from. We have to love our communities because the journey of a thousand miles really does begin with that single step when we think big and start small.”

Lauderdale County supervisors and other officials joined leaders from the City of Meridian, Meridian Community College and Compass Datacenters on Friday in celebrating the launch of a new Mechanical, Electrical and Information Technology Data Center Pathway Program.

 

The 14-week course, which was created by Compass in Red Oak, Texas, is built to take students with no technology background and prepare them for in-demand jobs in the data center industry.

 

“We have a problem with shortage of skilled trades, and not because people aren’t available to do the work, it’s a shortage of pathways to get there,” said Sudhir Kalra, Fellow & Chief Advisor for Data Center Operations, Compass Data Centers. “We’re living through a transformational time for the American economy today.”

 

Data Centers, like previous innovations such as electricity and railroads, are poised to fundamentally change how Americans live their lives, Kalra said, and the true impact of the Meridian data centers and those who help build them will not be fully known for generations.

 

“In a hundred years, when a lot of us, all of us have come and gone, Meridian Community College will still be training people,” he said. “This campus we’re building today will still be part of the community, and what we’re shorting today is nothing short of phenomenal.”

 

Graduates of the Red Oak MEI program have gone on to work at Siemens, Schneider Electric, Salute, CBRE and other industry giants, many of which have since partnered with the program as well. To help launch the MEI program and ensure the opportunity is open for all, Compass is covering 100% of tuition costs for the first 12 cohorts to go through the program at MCC.

 

Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd, who represents District 3 and serves as president of the Board of Supervisors, said much of the focus since Compass announced plans to build a $10 billion data campus in Meridian has focused on the tax revenue and economic impact such a project will bring. The MEI program, however, will transform residents lives by providing well-paying jobs, financial stability and security.

 

“You’ve changed our trajectory. You’ve changed the lives or not only us, but my kids’ lives, my children. That’s what you’ve done,” he said. “And even the people of Lauderdale County don’t really grasp it yet because we really don’t know what’s to come.

 

“So, thank you for your partnership. Thank you isn’t good enough, but we’re going to show you.”

 

Meridian Community College is focused on the mission of helping people move forward, whether they be recent high school graduates, workers looking for a second career or simply coming to expand their knowledge. That mission is why MCC leadership was enthusiastic when Compass approached the college about establishing its MEI Data Center Pathway Program in Meridian.

 

MCC President Dr. Thomas Huebner said the demand for workers with the training to work in and around data centers is only growing, and bringing the new program to Meridian will help meet that need. As the first program of its kind in the state, the MEI program will not only be a benefit for Meridian but for the state of Mississippi.

 

“What I love about this program is how accessible it is. You don’t need a degree. You don’t need previous experience,” Huebner said. “You simply need a willingness to learn and the determination to take advantage of an opportunity over 14 weeks.”

 

Meridian is known as the Queen City, Mayor Percy Bland said, but the growth, opportunity and momentum in the city and Lauderdale County are far beyond competition in the state. A critical component of that change, he said, is a skilled workforce, and thanks is owed to both Compass and MCC for working to provide just that.

Lauderdale County officials joined the City of Meridian and community leaders in recognizing the contributions of one of the city’s unsung heroes Thursday with the dedication of 45th Avenue as Ricky Hood Sr. Boulevard.

 

Hood, who has served as executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of East Mississippi for almost 40 years, has touched the lives of thousands of Meridian and Lauderdale County youth. His mentorship, guidance and encouragement have produced generations of successful residents.

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff Ward Calhoun said he remembers the spring of 1988, when he served on the Board of Trustees for the Boys and Girls Club. At the time, he was selected to be part of a committee hiring the next executive director.

 

“There was this guy who was real tall, and everybody was talking about him. And what I do remember, I don’t remember the time, but I remember meeting with him. I did not know him. I just knew who he was,” Calhoun said. “But the things that I remember about Mr. Hood was that he was a man of integrity. He was a man who got things done, and he was the kind of guy you didn’t mess with.”

 

Craig Houston, Lauderdale County District 2 Supervisor, said few have made an impact on Meridian like Ricky Hood. It’s difficult to understand just how big of a role Hood has played without spending time with the city’s youth and learning how far they’ve come.

 

“I think it’s well deserved,” he said. “He’s touched thousands of kids’ lives through the Boys and Girls Club.”

 

Calhoun said Hood has helped generations of children understand and pursue their purpose. He’s shown them there is a path that they can follow to reach success.

 

“I believe that Mr. Hood has tried through all of these years to show young people that they have a purpose. There’s something God has for you to do. Many people don’t care or don’t want to know, but he always has tried to show young people that there is a way to go. There is a better way. Be the best you that you can be,” he said.

 

Justice Court Judge and minister the Bishop LaBaron Hedgemon in his invocation opening the event, said Hood has spent countless weekends, nights and holidays helping local children and serving his community. It is fitting that the community celebrates the dedication of Ricky Hood Sr. Boulevard at the intersection with Terry Street because Hood has also been an intersection for many in the community, Hedgemon said. His work has helped guide countless youth down the right path and put them on track to succeed.

 

“As we celebrate today, we pray that this day will serve as a day where, Lord, people will begin to acknowledge not only the name, but also the legacy,” he said.

 

Hood thanked the community for the support it’s shown for his work, his family for making such a career possible and the Boys and Girls Club staff for carrying out their duties in helping local children. The reason why he’s been so deeply involved in the community for so long is simple, Hood said. It’s children like a young boy named Aiden.

 

Last week, Aiden had to be physically carried out of the club by a staff member, he said.  In most places, a young boy wouldn’t be allowed back, but that’s not how the Boys and Girls Club operates. It’s the children who need help, who need people to give them a chance, that are the reason Hood’s career has stretched almost four decades.

 

“He is smart, he is good, and all he needs is somebody to take a chance on him,” Hood said. “Somebody took a chance on us, and that’s the reason I’m here today is because somebody took a chance on us.”

 

Lauderdale County continues to experience strong economic momentum as new and existing companies choose to invest in East Mississippi, reinforcing the county’s reputation as one of the state’s premier destinations for business and industrial growth.

 

Driven by strategic infrastructure investments, a highly skilled workforce, and strong partnerships between local, regional, and state leaders, Lauderdale County has become an increasingly attractive location for companies seeking to establish new operations or expand existing facilities.

 

The county’s strategic location offers businesses direct access to major transportation corridors, with the Mississippi Department of Transportation reporting more than 32,000 vehicles passing through Meridian on Interstate 20 each day. Additionally, rail service, commercial air transportation, and nearby interstate connections provide efficient access to markets throughout the Southeast. Combined with competitive operating costs, available industrial sites, and dependable utility infrastructure, these assets continue to position Lauderdale County for long-term economic success.

 

One of the most significant examples of Lauderdale County’s continued growth is the announcement by Compass Datacenters to develop a multi-billion-dollar data center campus in Lauderdale County. The approximately $10 billion investment represents one of the largest private economic development projects in Mississippi history and demonstrates the county’s ability to compete successfully for high-tech, knowledge-based industries.

 

The project is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs while generating long-term employment opportunities and stimulating additional private investment throughout the region. Developments of this scale also strengthen the local tax base and encourage the growth of supporting businesses and services.

 

Lauderdale County’s success reflects years of collaboration among the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors, the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, the Mississippi Development Authority, local municipalities, utility providers, educational institutions, and private industry. These partnerships and collaborative projects have focused on preparing industrial sites, expanding infrastructure capacity, and developing a workforce equipped to meet the needs of modern employers.

 

In addition to attracting new investment, Lauderdale County remains committed to supporting the growth of existing industries. The county boasts a diverse economy including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, logistics, technology, and military-related industries. The diversity brings both stability and resilience to the local economy while creating opportunities for continued expansion.

 

Quality of life also remains a key factor in attracting both employers and employees. Affordable housing, excellent educational opportunities, recreational amenities, healthcare services, and the continued revitalization of downtown Meridian make Lauderdale County an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.

 

County leaders remain focused on building upon this momentum by continuing to invest in infrastructure, workforce development, and economic competitiveness.

 

For more information about Lauderdale County visit lauderdalecounty.org.

Lauderdale County Tax Collector Doris Spidle is announcing notice of upcoming land sale and important dates. Pursuant to the laws of the state of Mississippi, Spidle will conduct the land sale online beginning, August 31, 2026, at 8:30 a.m.
Ahead of the sale, Lauderdale County residents are encouraged to review the list of important dates:

•July 24, 2026 – Last day to pay land taxes with a personal check.
•July 30, 2026 – Last day to pay land taxes online before name is printed in “The Meridian Star.”
•July 31, 2026 – Last day to pay land taxes in office before name is printed in “The Meridian Star.”
•August 5, 2026 – Names with unpaid taxes will appear in “The Meridian Star.”
•August 12, 2026 – Names with unpaid taxes will appear in “The Meridian Star.”
•August 28, 2026 – Absolute last day to pay taxes in office with credit card or cash before land sale.

How to sign up to be a bidder for land sale

•August 1, 2026 – First day to register to bid online at www.govease.com.
•August 1, 2026 – Registration training is available at www.govease.com/bidderhelp.
•August 28, 2026 – Absolute last day to sign up for land sale at www.govease.com.
•August 31, 2026 – GovEase online tax sale begins at 8:30 am and continuing until all sold.

You may contact Cheryl Herrington in the tax collector’s office by email, cheryl.herrington@lauderdalecounty.org, or phone at 601-482-9895.
You may also contact our online provider GovEase by email, support@govease.com, or phone at 769-208-5050.

Residents living in unincorporated areas of Lauderdale County will not be affected by a recent change in ambulance services in the City of Meridian.

 

A vote by the Meridian City Council on Tuesday to create its own Emergency Medical Service District is limited to those living inside the city limits. City residents will see ambulance services change from Metro Ambulance to Pafford EMS.

 

Lauderdale County residents outside the city limits will continue to see EMS service provided by Metro Ambulance.

 

Kevin Smith, executive director for Metro, said the agency plans to continue its mission to provide emergency care for the residents of Lauderdale County.

 

“We will continue to operate as we’ve operated and take care of everybody in Lauderdale County,” he said.

Construction of an eight-building data campus in the I-20/59 industrial park is already making an impact in the local economy.

 

More than 1,050 workers are on site according to Tuesday’s count, and hotels, restaurants and other local businesses are benefiting from having more people shopping, eating and staying in the area.

Data from Visit Meridian show the average data center worker spends an average of $33.17 per day on meals, $48 per day on shopping, $58 per day on fuel and $107.58 per day on hotel rooms. That comes out to approximately $246.75 per person or a total impact of $259,087.50 daily.

 

Compared to last year, hotel room costs are up 6.8%, and total hotel revenue is up 19.5%. Occupancy rates for local hotels are also up by 11.4%.

 

Spending by data center workers is a direct economic impact, however there is also indirect impact and induced impact. Indirect impact, or supply-chain effects, come when businesses workers visit invest in more merchandise, supplies or services from local companies. Induced impact comes from employees serving workers in shops, restaurants and other industries spend their paychecks in the community.

 

Each of the eight data centers in the data campus is expected to be approximately 250,000 square feet. Work on the first two has already begun, with the anticipated completion of the first building near the end of the year. In total, the project represents roughly $10 billion in investment in Lauderdale County.

 

In addition to those helping in construction of the data centers, the project will create an estimated 300 permanent jobs.

The qualifying period for candidates planning to run for a seat on the Lauderdale County School District Board of Education begins Tuesday, July 21, and runs through August 20.

 

Up for election this year is the District 5 seat on the board, which is currently held by Michael Wilson, who also serves as vice president of the board. Terms for school board seats are staggered so no more than two seats are up for election at once.

 

Members of the board must be qualified electors in the district they’re elected to represent and have lived in the district for at least two years prior to the election. They must also have graduated high school or have a high school equivalency. Board members are elected to serve six-year terms.

 

While there is no fee to qualify for the race, candidates must file a statement of intent, along with a petition with signatures of at least 50 qualified electors from their district, with the Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk’s office to get on the ballot.

 

The school board race will not appear on everyone’s ballot come November. Only voters living in District 5 will have the opportunity to cast a vote in the race.

 

Also included in the 2026 General Election will be races to fill two county-level vacancies. Special elections are set to be held for Lauderdale County Circuit Clerk and Lauderdale County District 2 Justice Court Judge. Candidate qualifying for the special elections also ends August 20.

 

The November ballot will also include seats for U.S. House of Representatives, one of Mississippi’s two U.S. Senate seats, and Chancery, Circuit and Court of Appeals judges, as well as County Court judges.

Lauderdale County is proud to partner with Compass Datacenters on this transformational project in our community. Construction of the data campus will employ more than 1,000 Mississippi workers and generate hundreds of permanent, well-paying positions for people in Meridian and Lauderdale County.

 

Working in cooperation with our career and technical education and workforce development sectors, Compass’ MEI (Mechanical, Electrical and IT) program will also create new career pathways that prepare local students for highly demanded, skilled jobs both locally and abroad.

 

From the beginning of this project, Compass has expressed a desire to be an integral part in the community, and the company’s efforts toward sustainability and minimizing impacts to its neighbors are evidence of its sincerity. We appreciate the commitment to proper stewardship and responsible use of our local resources, as well as the investments being made to our utility infrastructure which will benefit all county residents.

 

This project will have a generational impact on Lauderdale County. The tax dollars generated from the data campus will mean better roads and bridges, more resources for our public schools and increased quality of life for county residents. It means less burden on residents while allowing county officials to carry out essential services.

 

The Compass project also positions Lauderdale County as a leader in one of the fastest growing industries in the world and highlights our unique capability to provide both the high-speed data access and skilled workforce needed for future growth.

Community leaders in business, non-profits and healthcare celebrated efforts to end Alzheimer’s on Tuesday with a business after hours event at The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience.

 

Sponsored by Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center and the Alzheimer’s Association, the event served to both raise awareness surrounding Alzheimer’s Disease and kick off registration for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s set for October at City Hall Lawn.

 

“Mississippi has the highest Alzheimer’s death rate in the nation,” said Baptist Anderson Regional Medical Center CEO and Administrator John Anderson. “There has been a 275% increase in Alzheimer’s deaths in Mississippi from 2000 to 2024. These statistics are alarming, and that’s why we’re working with the Alzheimer’s Association to raise awareness and turn these numbers around.”

Through its partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, Baptist Anderson is bringing new resources and training to Meridian to help identify and treat Alzheimer’s and dementia. The earlier the disease can be caught, the more effective treatment can be, Anderson said.

 

Sarah Odom with the Alzheimer’s Association said bringing awareness to the disease and educating the public is vital. Unlike cancer or heart disease, Alzheimer’s isn’t often discussed publicly, and symptoms are not as widely known. With treatment being more effective earlier in the disease’s progression, getting people to recognize signs and get a diagnosis early is more important than ever.

 

“My 10-year-old son brought home a brochure the other day from elementary school from the Heart Association where he could raise money and win little prizes, but I guess he knows every single step about signs to get heart disease,” she said. “Why are we not starting there? This is our brain.”

 

Beyond the individual with the diagnosis, Alzheimer’s has a dramatic impact on those who take on the responsibility of caring for their loved one. Caregivers often have to take time off work to help with doctor’s appointments and other responsibilities, and some even take early retirement. That not only affects their lives but the businesses they work for, Odom said.

 

“A lot of companies don’t really acknowledge it. We’ve got to start doing something, and y’all are where we wanted to start,” she said.

 

The Alzheimer’s Association is asking local businesses to show their support by signing up a team to take part in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 24. There is no cost to take part in the walk, Odom said, but sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking for other ways to get involved.

 

For more information about the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit the event’s Facebook page, Walk to End Alzheimer’s-East MS.

In the early days of emergency communication, 911 was a number to call to be connected with the proper law enforcement, fire or medical agency. That gave birth to the well-known phrase, “What is your emergency.”

 

Modern E-911 call centers, however, do much more than forward calls, and dispatchers play a pivotal role in both getting residents the help they need and making sure first responders stay safe. In the past 12 months, Lauderdale County E-911 received approximately 50,950 911 calls, with the majority (73%) involving Meridian Police Department.

 

“Under that 9-11 switchboard idea, that’s what we needed to know. Where do I have to send this call? What kind of emergency are you having so I can send you law or fire or medical,” said Lauderdale County E-911 Director Jared Stanley. “But today, here locally, with us dispatching for all of our agencies outside of Metro, we don’t need to know the ‘what’ first.”

 

Speaking to a group of law enforcement, residents and business owners Saturday at Marion Town Hall, Stanley shared some of the inner workings of Lauderdale County E-911, what information dispatchers need and what is often happening in the background that callers don’t hear.

 

It is not uncommon for callers to get testy with dispatchers because they’re asking questions instead of sending help, Stanley said. That help, however, is already on the way, and the information dispatchers are gathering is helping first responders get a better idea of the scene they’re heading towards.

 

One of the very first questions dispatchers will ask is where the emergency is located. While modern technology often provides a location for the call, it isn’t always accurate. Sometimes it’s the billing address for the phone’s account or the cell phone tower the call is routing through.

 

Asking where the emergency is located is a quick way to verify that information and get help on the way as soon as possible.

 

“We are trying to get the information in that’s necessary to get officers rolling down the road in the very first place and the questions we know those responders are going to want to know before they show up to the accident,” Stanley said. “So, I’ve got to know where you are to at least get them rolling, and then while they’re rolling, I’m going to get more questions answered and get that information out to responders before they ever get to you.”

 

For law enforcement and other first responders, Stanley said proper radio usage and clear communication goes a long way in helping dispatchers do their job. Simple things such as providing information in a certain order makes a big difference. And just as with residents calling 911, dispatch needs to know where they are.

 

While providing a location and answering dispatchers’ questions during a 911 call is key, there are steps residents and business owners can do ahead of time in case of an emergency. Businesses or homes with gates, alarms or other security measures can provide codes to E-911 to help first responders gain entry should the need arise. Hard to find homes or businesses can also provide detailed directions to help responders arrive more quickly, and residents can share any important medical data as well.

 

All the information can be added to the E-911 database and can help police, fire and medical services arrive sooner and provide better care, Stanley said. Residents and business owners can email information to e911@lauderdalecounty.org.

 

Smart phones are another tool that can help share important medical information with dispatchers. On an iPhone platform, go to health app, medical ID or settings, safety & emergency, medical ID on android and enable “share during emergency call.” Enabling the setting will automatically share medical data users enter with dispatch during a 911 call.

 

For those without smart phones, a similar, free tool by the American Red Cross is available at emergencyprofile.org.

 

Marion Police Chief Randall Davis thanked Stanley for giving insight into emergency dispatch and said Saturday’s discussion will not be the last.

Lauderdale County residents seeking natural remedies have a new resource to turn to after Thee Herbal Blessing cut the ribbon Friday on its location in Meridian.

 

Founded by Eric Collins, Thee Herbal Blessing offers organic, herbal supplements to help customers with a variety of ailments and illnesses. Starting with one location in Jackson in 2019, the business has expanded to include multiple locations throughout Mississippi.

 

Darrin Mitchell Jr., who co-owns the Meridian location, said bringing Thee Herbal Blessing to the Queen City goes beyond a business decision.

 

“We don’t look at this just as a business. We look at it as purpose,” he said. “You know a lot of us are on medication. A lot of us are going through things that’s really deep, and so bringing this business here, it’s a great opportunity.”

 

Collins said he didn’t choose Meridian as much as Meridian chose him, and part of that is finding a great business partner in Mitchell. Together they are bringing a new, natural healing avenue to the city.

 

Meridian City Councilman Elliot Brewer thanked Collins and Mitchell for their investment in the community. Bringing new businesses and providing opportunities for small business owners is what the City Council is all about.

 

“We’re just thankful that you all are here in Meridian, thankful for this opportunity that you all have established a new business and growth in our community,” he said. “That’s what we’re all after. That’s what we’re seeking today, and so we’re thankful to add them to the list of our wonderful business we have here in the city.”

 

Helen Sims, membership director for the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, said Mitchell has led several health-related initiatives in Meridian to try and help residents improve their overall health. Thee Herbal Blessing is another example of that mission, she said, as well as an investment into the community.

 

“We’re so thankful that you chose Meridian and Lauderdale County to invest in and help our community be better,” she said.

 

Thee Herbal Blessing is located at 2119 Highway 19 N. in the shopping center next to El Norte. For more information about the business, visit theeherbalblessing.com.

The first half of 2026 brought several large events to Lauderdale County, and tax revenue from local hotel stays reflect an increase in traffic through the area.

 

Data show more than $55,000 in new hotel tax revenue over the previous year, which reflects a roughly 7.2% increase. Visit Meridian Executive Director Laura Carmichael said that figure is likely above 8% once the most recent numbers are added to the equation.

 

“Our occupancy rates are continuing to rise, which is good,” she said. “I said that my goal was $1 million for the year, and I think we’re definitely going to hit that this year.”

 

Local hotels have seen an uptick in guests due to events such as Wings Over Meridian and Sipp & Savor, as well as business from ongoing construction projects such as the data center project in the I-20/59 Industrial Park.

 

Neil Henry, who serves on the Lauderdale County Tourism Commission, said looking at revenue from hotel stays is one way to measure the impact large-scale events have on the community. The hotel occupancy around an event can help tourism leaders and other officials gain an idea of how many visitors are drawn by festivals, concerts and other activities.

 

“It’s a clear return on investment,” he said.

 

As Lauderdale County sees its hotel occupancy grow, Visit Meridian is also preparing to gain a much better understanding of future needs. The county tourism arm has been working with Young Strategies to develop a strategic plan, which has now been completed.

 

Carmichael said she is working to schedule a time in August for Young Strategies to present the strategic plan to both the Tourism Commission and the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors.

 

“So that’s kind of an update on the strategic plan,” she said. “I’m really excited about the initiatives. It’s just growing our tourism base here.”

 

The first six months of the year have been busy, and there’s no sign the rest of the year will slow down. Multiple conferences, concerts, events and more are scheduled through the end of the year and into 2027.

 

The MSU-Riley Center recently announced its new season of performances, a new exhibit “Building Your World” by artist John Jennings is open at The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience and Smithsonian exhibit “Spark! Places of Innovation” is being hosted at Soulé Steam Museum through August. 15, are just three of many activities and events scheduled throughout the community.

 

For more information about Lauderdale County, upcoming events, places to stay, eat and more, go to visitmeridian.com.

The Lauderdale County Election Commission is looking for November’s general election to go smoothly after the Board of Supervisors on Monday approve the purchase of new voting machines.

 

Election Commissioner Gloria Dancy said the county is upgrading from the DS200 to DS300. The machines are similar with the DS300 being faster at processing ballots. Lauderdale County has been using the DS200 machines for a decade, she said, so it’s time for an upgrade.

 

“The state is requiring that we update our voting equipment every 10 years,” she said. “We’re in our tenth year.”

 

Currently, the Election Commission has 62 voting machines to cover 37 voting precincts, which is more than the county needs. While upgrading, the commission is lowering that number to 47, to provide one for each precinct and 10 extras.

 

The county’s current voting machines will be traded in as part of the deal.

 

Also part of the purchase is a new machine that can be used to print ballots. Lauderdale County used to order both absentee and regular ballots, which were printed elsewhere and delivered for use in local elections. Having the ability to print ballots locally is an asset should a precinct run out of ballots or more absentee ballots be needed.

 

Dancy said the $269,265 voting equipment purchase will be paid for with funds received from the state. Each county receives funds based on population, with the money to be used for election equipment.

 

“We do have this money in the budget. The state has given us this money to upgrade our election equipment,” she said.

 

Lauderdale County was one of the first counties in Mississippi to switch from electronic voting machines to scannable paper ballots. Supervisor Kyle Rutledge said the paper ballot process has proven itself to be much easier and faster for county residents compared other equipment the county has used in the past.

 

With the upgrade to the DS300, Election Commissioners expect the process to move even quicker and reduce the amount of time it takes after polls close to produce unofficial results.

Lauderdale County residents will see garbage trucks rolling earlier than normal after the Board of Supervisors voted Monday to change the start of pickup from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m. The vote came at the request of Meridian Waste, which provides residential garbage service to the county.

 

Entering the hottest part of the year, starting pickup earlier is intended to help garbage crews beat the heat as well as improve safety. Meridian Waste officials explained the change is also needed due to increased traffic, which has led to crews needing to switch to right-side-only pickup on some of the county’s busier two-lane roads.

 

Garbage collectors usually cross the road to collect cans from both sides of the street in one stop, but the volume of traffic on some roads makes it difficult for them to cross the street safely. The change means garbage collectors aren’t exposed to oncoming traffic, but the process takes longer as two passes are needed.

 

Meridian Waste plans to continue collecting from both sides of the road in more rural areas of the county and when traffic is light.

 

Cole Crozier, Meridian Waste District Manager for Mississippi, said county residents are encouraged to put their cans out the night before scheduled pickup. With an earlier pickup time, that will ensure the cans are out and ready when Meridian Waste trucks come through.

 

Lauderdale County Solid Waste Enforcement Officer Daniel Mabry said there will be a transition period to help residents adjust to the new pickup schedule. People get into a habit of taking their cans out at a particular time each week, and it can take a while for changes to stick.

 

During the transition period, Meridian Waste will work with residents if the earlier pickup window is missed or some other issue arises.

 

“If somebody didn’t get the memo within a couple months, they’re still going to take care of them,” he said.

Lauderdale County Tax Collector Doris Spidle on Tuesday announced notice of upcoming land sale and important dates. This year’s land sale will be held online beginning 8:30 a.m., Aug. 31, pursuant to the laws of the state of Mississippi.

Ahead of the sale, the Tax Collector’s office is encouraging residents to review the list of important dates:

 

July 24 — Last day to pay land taxes with a personal check

July 30 — Last day to pay land taxes online before name is printed in The Meridian Star

July 31 — Last day to pay land taxes in office before name is printed in The Meridian Star

Aug. 5 — Names with unpaid taxes will appear in The Meridian Star

Aug. 12 — Names with unpaid taxes will appear for a final time in The Meridian Star

Aug. 28 — Absolute last day to pay taxes in office with credit card or cash before land sale

How to sign up to be a bidder for the land sale:

Aug. 1 — First day to register to bid online at www.govease.com

Aug. 1 — Registration training is available at www.govease.com/bidderhelp

Aug. 28 — Absolute last day to sign up for the land sale on GovEase

Aug. 31 — GovEase online tax sale begins at 8:30 a.m. and continues until all properties are sold

Potential bidders can with questions can contact Cheryl Herrington in the Tax Collector’s office by email, Cheryl.Herrington@lauderdalecounty.org, or by calling 601-482-9895.

They can also contact GovEase at support@govease.com or by calling 769-208-5050.

Dangerous heat is expected throughout Lauderdale County over the next few days, with the National Weather Service in Jackson issuing a heat advisory from 11 a.m. Monday through 9 p.m. Tuesday.

 

Forecasted temperatures are set to reach as high as 97 degrees, and high humidity will push heat indexes to as much as 108 degrees across the central and eastern parts of the state.

 

Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, stay in air conditioned areas and stay out of the sun whenever possible. Those going outside should wear lightweight, loose clothing and try to limit strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.

 

Never leave people or pets in hot cars and check on elderly neighbors and relatives.

 

For more information or to sign up for severe weather alerts, visit lemaonline.com.

Drivers are encouraged to take precautions and plan alternate routes as work planned on Minnow Bucket Road will impact traffic over the next week.

 

Lauderdale County Road and Bridge crews will continue side trimming along the sides of Minnow Bucket Road this weekend, which will close one lane of traffic. The work is expected to last from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

 

Lauderdale County Road and Bridge Coordinator Ryan Mosley said his department is also planning to replace a cross pipe along the road next week. The project will close the road to through traffic beginning Tuesday, June 30, through Thursday, July 2.

 

The road is slated to be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Limited access will be available for those living on Minnow Bucket Road, but drivers are strongly encouraged to use Lauderdale Toomsuba Road and avoid the area if possible.

 

Thursday, June 25

— Earth’s Bounty Nightmarket, 5 p.m. at The MAX

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 7-8:30 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

 

Friday, June 26

— State Games 2-person Volleyball, Courts of Gray and Bulldog Beach

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 4:30-6 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 7:30-9 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

 

Saturday, June 27

— State Games 7v7 High School Soccer at Northeast Park

— State Games Bowling at Event Zone

— State Games Cornhole at Phi Delta Cappa

— State Games Youth Swimming at Meridian Community College

— State Games Trail Run at Bonita Lakes

— State Games 2-person Volleyball at Courts of Gray and Bulldog Beach

— State Games 4-person Volleyball at Courts of Gray and Bulldog Beach

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 1:30-3 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 4:30-6 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 7:30-9 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

Sunday, June 28

— State Games Bowling at Event Zone

— State Games Youth Swimming at Meridian Community College

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 1:30-3 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

— Germany’s Great Bavarian Circus, 4:30-6 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

Lauderdale County residents are invited to help save the lives of fellow Mississippians as Mississippi Blood Services hosts a blood drive Tuesday at Meridian-Lauderdale County Public Library.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., residents can stop by the library’s west parking lot to donate at Mississippi Blood Services’ bloodmobile. Those who donate will receive a $10 Visa gift card as a thank-you for their gift.

According to the non-profit blood service, supplies of blood in Mississippi are critically low. The state has a severe shortage of all blood types except for AB+ and AB-, for which it has a 3-day supply.

Blood has multiple uses, and each donor can impact multiple lives depending on the type of donation and the needs of the recipients. Whole blood contains red blood cells, which are often used for trauma patients and surgeries.

Blood also includes platelets, which aid in blood clotting and are needed by those with bleeding disorders, plasma, white blood cells and more.

Donors must be at least 17, or 16 with parental consent, 110 pounds and healthy. To see if you’re eligible to give blood, a donor history questionnaire can be found online at msblood.com.

While walk-ins are welcome, residents who want to donate are encouraged to make an appointment by scanning the QR code on the flyer or online at msblood.com.

Residents visiting the Lauderdale County Government Center will soon see construction underway as work is set to begin on a parking lot expansion.

Approved by the Board of Supervisors in April, the project will add additional parking between the Government Center and Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department to meet a need for more parking spaces when court is in session or jury selection is underway.

The plan also includes new handicap parking located closer to the main entrance of the Government Center and nearer to the handicap ramp.

While expanding public parking, the project will also address parking for county employees and help clarify public and employee only entrances. Installation of ornamental fencing and a new gate will separate employee parking areas from public parking.

H.E. Mosely was the winning bidder for the project and will be carrying out the work. The project was initially scheduled to begin Monday, June 15, but was delayed due to weather.

Residents are encouraged to pay extra attention and keep an eye out for workers while work is underway.

With a thriving arts and culture scene, bountiful athletic facilities and a strong downtown, there is always something going on in Lauderdale County. Each Thursday we give you a peek at upcoming weekend events, activities and more.

Thursday, June 18

– Juneteenth Gospel Celebration, 7 p.m. at Temple Theater

– Artinis at the Museum, 6-8 p.m. at Meridian Museum of Art

– The Great Bavarian Circus, 7 p.m. at Uptown Meridian

Friday, June 19

– Juneteenth Pickleball Tournament, 6-8 p.m. at Northeast Park

– Juneteenth Black Business Expo, 6-9 p.m. at The MAX

Saturday, June 20

– Juneteenth Pickleball Tournament, 7:30-10 a.m. at Northeast Park

– Juneteenth Kid’s Zone, 11a.m. to 3 p.m. at Highland Park

– Juneteenth Heritage Festival, 5-10 p.m. at City Hall Lawn

– HOPE Summer in the South Horse Show at Lauderdale County Agri-Center

Sunday, June 21

– Juneteenth Brian Cole Classic, 4-7 p.m. at Magnolia Ball Fields

– HOPE Summer in the South Horse Show at Lauderdale County Agri-Center

Community leaders celebrated the final stages of a major achievement on Thursday as Hope City Church cut the ribbon on its new C Street location. Located in the old T&D Furniture building, the church hopes to connect with the community, provide an area where people can come together and foster faith in Meridian and Lauderdale County.

“This building is a part of what our vision is as a church. For most it’s just a building. For us it’s a part of revitalization, it’s a part of redemption,” said Lead Pastor Josh Lafferty. “So, what we’ve seen the Lord do through this, we’re seeing him do in our lives.”

With the building vacant for almost a decade, the church took on extensive renovations to transform the large open showroom into a worship facility with an auditorium, kids’ area, office space and more.

Meridian Chief Administrative Officer Craig Hitt said he was working in the city’s Community Development department when Lafferty first broached the idea and recalls wondering at the amount of work needing to be done. The church, however, got it done, and turned an eyesore into a beautiful facility.

“We thank you again for taking this building and bringing it back to life, and we thank you for what you’re going to do for your ministry and the life of this community going forward,” he said.

Matt Schanrock, with the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, said the chamber of commerce is glad to welcome Hope City Church to the community. With its position to downtown and ability to hold a large number of people, he said there could be potential opportunities to hold events and meetings there as well.

Started in 2020, Hope City Church has bounced around a number of locations as it searched for a permeant home, Lafferty said. With the new facility, that home has been found.

“And so, thank you to all of the people who have helped make this happen. Thank you city of Meridian, EMBDC, all of you guys for just helping us get here,” he said. “It’s been an incredible honor, incredible journey, and we’re looking forward to this next chapter.”

A group of dedicated community volunteers were recognized for their service Monday as the Lauderdale County Extension Service recognized local Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers.

Extension Agent Meribeth Boland said MHV members have contributed deeply to the community over the years. As a former 4-H students and now an extension agent, she said she has been able to see the impact the group has had.

“Coming from an agent standpoint and from a youth standpoint whenever I was in 4-H, we cannot express our appreciation to you all enough for everything you have done over the years,” she said.

Whether it was judging contests, sharing talents or spending time, the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers were there to help their community however they could, Boland said.

Extension Agent Tia Thompson, who joined Lauderdale County Extension in 2024, said she didn’t get to work alongside the MHV members before the group disbanded, but the impact they had on the extension service, 4-H and the community has been easy to see.

“Your presence is obviously missed, but we couldn’t not recognize all that you guys have done,” she said.

Boland said a plaque recognizing the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers and their contributions will be put on display in the Lauderdale County Extension offices to commemorate the group and make sure others know about their efforts as well.

Patriotism and creativity will be on display at the Lauderdale County Government Center after the Board of Supervisors on Monday accepted a handmade quilt from the Bethany Church Quilting Club.

Supervisor Kyle Rutledge said the club started in 2011 and has since made hundreds of quilts and other items for special events, organizations and those in need. Among those receiving quilts have been Hope Village for Children, Baptist hospitals, the Boys and Girls Club, Samaritan Purse, Christmas shoe boxes and more.

“They have made hats and shawls, about 2,345, and 268 handmade quilts,” he said.

Cathy Webb, a retired educator and member of the quilting club, said the group gives quilts for a variety of reasons from a baby dedication to someone struggling with illness.

“Anyone we feel needs one, we take a quilt,” she said.

Each quilt comes with its own embroidered label made by another club member, Webb said, and each person contributes their experience and skill into the quilting process. The quilt presented to supervisors is special, she said, as it is made specifically to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding.

“This is such a special, special Fourth of July coming up, 250 years of our country, and we wanted to make this quilt,” she said.

From dying the center portion of the quilt with tea to intricate patterns known as the “Baptist Fan”, the quilt is a celebration of America’s founding and freedom.

With a thriving arts and culture scene, bountiful athletic facilities and a strong downtown, there is always something going on in Lauderdale County. Each Thursday we give you a peek at upcoming weekend events, activities and more.

 

Friday, June 12

— America 250 Ale Trail, 5-9:30 p.m., start at The Alley

 

 

Saturday, June 13

— Lauderdale County Waste Tire Collection Site, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 210 Windmill Drive.

— State Games Archery, 7 a.m., Lauderdale County Agri-Center

— State Games PCC/Pistol Caliber Carbine, 8 a.m., Battlefield Shooting Club-Collinsville

— State Games Powerlifting, 9 a.m., Meridian High School Boys Gym

— Everlasting: A Conversation with Reena Evers-Everette & Taiwo Gaynor, 5 p.m., The MAX

— Juneteenth, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian

— Comic Commons, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The MAX

 

Sunday, June 14

— State Games 2 Gun Competition, 9a.m.,  Battlefield Shooting Club-Collinsville

Lauderdale County officials joined Toyota of Meridian and Gulf States Toyota in cutting the ribbon Wednesday on the new Toyota dealership on Highway 39. The brand-new facility was an investment in the business by Mississippi businessmen Jim and Tommy Duff.

Eric Williamson, president and general manager of Gulf States Toyota, said plans for a new dealership were first discussed about 15 years ago, but it was the Duff brothers who took those discussions and made them into reality. Without their involvement, a new facility would not have happened.

“Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for building us this beautiful new facility. Thank you for all you do for Toyota of Meridian,” he said.

Cole Cardwell, chair of the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, said Toyota of Meridian is one of several businesses the two brothers own, and they are no strangers to the Queen City market.

“I’m sure most of you know this Toyota of Meridian isn’t all that Jim and Tommy are doing in our area, as we’re beginning to see multiple dealership signs change around town,” he said. “So, thank you both for your continued confidence and investment in our community.”

Cardwell said it’s the buy in from business owners like the Duff brothers that enables a community to grow, and with their support and the support of others, Meridian will continue to attract new businesses and new opportunities.

Meridian is a hidden jewel in Mississippi, Tommy Duff said, and it has the potential to become one of the hottest destinations in the state. From the elected official to everyday residents, people are doing wonderful things in the Queen City, he said.

“Meridian has great things happening. We’re going to be part of the community,” he said.

Edwin Vickery, of Duff Capital Investments, said Meridian has great places to eat and good places to stay, but it is the people that give the city its special appeal.

“The resource of this town is the people,” he said. “You’ve got awesome people in this community.”

Meridian Mayor Percy Bland said the Queen City has a history of coming in second, but that is changing. With new businesses and new energy in town, Meridian is moving to take first place.

“We don’t want to come in second place anymore. We feel like we’re number one. We feel like we’re the best thing in the state of Mississippi, and we’re going to continue to be that,” he said. “So, we want you to help us grow this city even more.”

With six businesses in Meridian, Duff said the success he and his brother have enjoyed is the product of a strong local team, and he appreciates the work that team does on a daily basis. A brand-new dealership is meaningless without the staff who show up every day, work hard and take pride in doing their jobs well.

“You can have the nicest place in the world, but it’s the people who count,” he said.

 

Lauderdale County officials joined Meridian and community leaders Tuesday in recognizing the life and legacy of Meridian Police Officer Kennis Croom. Croom, a native of Tuscaloosa, was killed June 9, 2022, while responding to a domestic violence call.

Meridian Police Chief Malachi Sanders said although he was working with the Mississippi Highway Patrol at the time, Croom’s death was felt by law enforcement throughout the state.

“Even though I didn’t know him, he was an officer. He was a public servant,” Sanders said. “He gave his life so all of us are family in law enforcement here.”

Many law enforcement officers in the Meridian and Lauderdale County area did know Croom and were on the job when he was killed. Sanders said some of his officers approached him about holding a memorial event for the fallen officer, and he agreed.

Sanders said he hopes Tuesday’s event will remind residents of the real dangers that come with being a law enforcement officer and understand it’s a calling those carrying the badge don’t take lightly.

“A lot of people take it for granted that you put your life on the line,” he said. “We don’t want the public to every forget that because that’s important and Officer Croom gave his life, as well as a lot of other officers all over the state and the country.”

Kelvin Croom, father of Kennis Croom, said his son wanted to be a police officer from a very young age and died doing what he loved.

“He did give his life doing what he enjoyed, and that is protecting the people,” he said.

In honor of Kennis Croom, a scholarship fund has been set up to help youth pursue their dreams. Kelvin Croom said five $1,000 scholarships will be awarded this year on Kennis’ birthday.

“Do the very best that you can to help make sure that children have a great experience in living but people can live without fear of someone murdering them or stealing or robbing or attacking them in any form or fashion,” he said. “We all need to get along.”

Lauderdale County’s newest crimefighter has four paws, a tail and a nose trained to sniff out trouble. K-9 Mark and his partner Kelby Cole graduated Friday from an intensive 12-week training course at Alabama Canine and got straight to work putting their skills to work in the community.

Cole said the training involves imprinting the dogs on the scent of illegal drugs and teaching them how to search for them. The training also covers obedience and other skills that are needed in a law enforcement setting. In addition to narcotics, Mark is trained in a number of other areas as well.

“Mark is trained to alert to the odor of narcotics. He is also trained in apprehension and handler protection, tracking and article search,” Cole said.

Off-duty, Mark and Cole are best friends, Cole said. The 13-month-old dog enjoys playing with other dogs or just laying around on the couch. Building that relationship was a crucial part of training, Cole said as both the K-9 and handler need to know and trust one another for the partnership to work. Their bond was helped by Mark having already met Cole at a previous training.

Cole and Mark also have a new vehicle specifically outfitted for a K-9 unit. In addition to the kennel in the back, the vehicle is equipped with safety mechanisms to protect both partners. In the event the air conditioner fails, a loud announcement over the vehicle PA instructs anyone nearby to contact law enforcement. At the same time, both back windows roll down and fans attached over the windows begin circulating air.

An additional safety feature will sound an alarm if Mark is left in the vehicle once it’s turned off. The system requires drivers to press a button to confirm they have the K-9 to disable to alarm.

Whether it’s tracking down a suspect, sniffing out drugs or helping keep deputies safe, Mark and Cole are ready to go whenever they’re needed.

“They can call to need him at any point in time,” Cole said.

Law enforcement and judicial personnel bid a fond farewell to Lt. Edwina Maclin on Friday at a retirement reception recognizing her 28 years of service to Lauderdale County.

A TAC officer at the Lauderdale County Detention Facility, Maclin was tasked with making sure deputies, detention officers and other authorized people followed proper procedures when accessing the National Crime Information Center. A federal database operated by the FBI, the NCIC is a trove of information for law enforcement including data on wanted fugitives, stolen property, missing persons, criminal histories and more.

With her red pen at the ready, Maclin was known for making sure work was done correctly but also taking time to help new faces understand why such procedures were in place.

“There are certain people in county government that you just know don’t cross, and this was one of them,” said Sheriff Ward Calhoun. “And that’s OK because that’s what it took to make sure the job got done right.”

Lt. Andy Matuszewski said Maclin’s efforts helped make him, and countless others, better at their jobs.

“We may not have got it right, but you made sure we knew how from then on,” he said. “It wasn’t just, ‘You’re not doing this right,’ it was ‘This is what you need to do, and this is why.’ I’m immensely better because of it.”

Maj. Melissa McCarter, who oversees the Lauderdale County Detention Center, said Maclin was influential in her career as well as the careers of many deputies and detention officers over the years.

Maclin said she is leaving her work in good hands and appreciates the effort deputies and detention staff put in their jobs each day.

“It was a blessing,” Maclin said. “I appreciate everybody because most of you all played a part in my being here.”

Residents looking for vehicles, heavy equipment or trailers are in luck. The Lauderdale County Road & Bridge Department is offering just that with surplus equipment available through Trax Plus.

Included in the auction are various skid steer attachments, a Caterpillar D5C dozer, passenger vehicles, a 25-foot, tandem axle trailer and more.

Road and Bridge Coordinator Ryan Mosley said the auction isn’t limited to contractors or government entities, and anyone can bid on the surplus inventory. To view the listings, he said, residents can visit the Trax Plus website, traxplus.com, and click on the “AT” logo next to “Locations” in the top right of the screen.

“All of the items listed are from Lauderdale County,” he said.

Lauderdale County officials, law enforcement and community leaders joined the Marion Police Department Foundation on Friday in recognizing local high school graduates during the Foundation’s 2026 Scholarship Awards Program.

Recognizing students from throughout East Mississippi, the scholarship program is a way to both celebrate the achievement of graduating high school and encourage those entering college to continue to excel.

Marion Police Chief Randall Davis said the 25 recipients have already proven they are high achievers and have the drive for success. What is unknown, he said, is how they will respond to the inevitable challenges and failures of life.

“We know everybody here are superstars and everything else, but what happens when you strike out,” he said. “I say let’s just keep moving, moving forward.”

Ameder Ward, a mechanical engineer and consultant to the town of Marion who served as speaker for Friday’s event, said everyone has moments they regret, instances where opportunities slipped by, unkind words were shared or when seeking short-term rewards clouded long-term goals.

As a student at Louisiana Tech, Ward shared the dean of her department offered her the opportunity to pursue a doctorate with a full stipend. At the time, she said, she was tired of studying and burnt out of working multiple job. Because of that, she turned down the offer.

As scholarship recipients begin their college careers, they will have such moments, Ward said.

“As you step into the world of higher education or specialized training, let these words of wisdom help you to steer clear of regret,” she said. “But even if you miss it, as I shared that I did, you can receive restoration by acknowledging your mistakes and asking God for help.”

Cameron Davis, Ole Miss Miss University and daughter of Police Chief Randall Davis, encouraged graduates to enjoy their time at college or technical training but also be willing to try new things. As a senior at Ole Miss, the biggest moments of growth were when she was uncomfortable.

“I think the experiences and the people that I met and the lessons that I learned from those moments helped shape me into the person that I was today, and I’m so thankful for the times that I did things when I was scared,” she said.

With high school behind them, scholarship recipients have a blank canvas in front of them, said Marion Mayor Larry Gill. Whatever dreams or aspirations they have, hard work and discipline can make them happen.

“This is the beginning. You’ve got so much ahead of you, and you can do whatever you want to do from this point right here,” he said. “All you’ve got to do is work hard and stay consistent. No matter what you want to do, everything is obtainable.”

A Lauderdale County Grand Jury is recommending repairs to the county Detention Center and additional documentation to help plaintiffs understand their responsibilities in Justice Court.

In a Grand Jury Report filed Tuesday, the June grand jury said it examined 12 witnesses and issued indictments in 95 cases over a two-day period. Indictments were not issued in an additional six cases.

As part of its duties, the Grand Jury toured the Lauderdale County Detention Center and made several recommendations to address maintenance issues including fixing an electromagnetic door lock and fixing a broken plastic holder for files.

The Grand Jury also had an opportunity to meet with Justice Court Judge Paul Earley and Court Clerk Nikita Wilkins and learn more about the court’s process.

In its report, the jury recommends the court include documentation letting plaintiffs know about their responsibilities following up on the status of the case and other literature informing the public about investigative assistance available to help identify defendants.

Residents of Lauderdale County will have a new way to receive emergency alerts and community notifications as the Lauderdale County Emergency Management Agency rolls out a new alerts system.

LEMA Director Odie Barrett said the new system, Regroup, has several advantages over Nixle, which the county currently uses for emergency alerts. One of the main improvements is the ability to target emergency alerts for specific areas of the county.

Under the current system, Barrett said, a tornado warning for Collinsville would alert everyone in Lauderdale County. Now, emergency officials can limit notifications to those in the path of the storm.

“Here it will send out alerts only to the people who are in the polygon area that the National Weather Service has drawn as far as the affected area,” he said. “So, we’re not waking everybody up in the county at two o’clock in the morning with a mass notification when it’s not in their area.”

The new system will also allow the county to phase out use of tornado sirens. Barrett said the county’s network of sirens needs repair, and it would cost taxpayers roughly $40,000 to get them all back into working order. The sirens themselves, however, don’t reach everyone and aren’t as effective as modern mass notification systems.

Lauderdale County residents wanting to receive alerts are asked to sign up by following the QR code on the Lauderdale Emergency Management Facebook page. A link will also be live on the agency’s website, lemaonline.com, in the near future.

Residents currently signed up for alerts through Nixle will also need to register for the new system.

“We’ll have it set up to where you can come into our system and select what all you get your alerts from,” he said. “So, our major emergency alerts and weather alerts, if it reaches a criteria, we can send that out to everybody.”

In addition to emergency alerts, Barrett said residents can opt in to receive community alerts about events and other things going on throughout the county and even choose to have the system call their house phone if they still have a landline.

LEMA plans to continue operating the Nixle system as well through August before beginning to phase it out, Barrett said. After that, the county will transition completely over to Regroup.

The Meridian City Council on Tuesday congratulated Metro Ambulance personnel for receiving awards for outstanding service to the Meridian and Lauderdale County community.

Emergency Medical Technician James Joseph and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician Mushula Tubby were named EMT of the Year and AEMT of the Year earlier this year at the annual EMS Gala hosted by the Mississippi Center for Advancement of Prehospital Medicine.

“That says a lot because it’s coming from the entire state, and people who knew them in other places voted for them because they know how hard these two guys work,” said Kevin Smith, executive director of Metro Ambulance.

Smith said both men were previously chosen by their peers as EMT of the Year and AEMT of the year for Metro as well.

Joseph, who has worked at Metro for more than 19 years, is known for his dedication and compassion. He always has a positive attitude and is calm no matter how bad the situation gets, Smith said.

“James is a trusted team member who always puts the needs of others first,” he said.

Joseph is also instrumental in training new Metro employees, bringing patience and understanding that others can’t provide.

Tubby is known for his servant leadership, Smith said, with a passion for the job and his patients showing in his work. An advanced EMT, Tubby is currently enrolled in paramedic school, where he was elected class president by his peers.

“As a mentor and an advocate for EMS he encourages recruits and future providers while representing the profession with pride and professionalism,” Smith said.

Both Joseph and Tubby are highly respected by their patients, peers and supervisors, and both have proven to have a strong work ethic and dedication to their craft. Smith said the two can be counted on to do what they need to do when they need to do it.

“If we could clone these two guys up here, their immediate supervisors would love every day because they know they’re going to be there,” he said. “They don’t call out.”

Joseph said he’s honored to be named EMT of the Year and appreciates the almost two decades he has been able to serve the Lauderdale County community through Metro.

“Thank you for the opportunity to serve this great community,” he said.

While the award has his name on it, Tubby said there is a crowd of people who played a part in him being named AEMT of the Year.

“I’m truly humbled, honored, proud, everything, but we wouldn’t be able to do this job without the Metro team, the Meridian Police Department, Meridian Fire Department and everybody that’s involved in patient care,” he said.

 

Lauderdale County supervisors on Monday took initial steps toward resurfacing Minnow Bucket Road with a unanimous vote to advertise for bids from contractors on the project.

District 2 Supervisor Craig Houston, who represents the Minnow Bucket Road area, has been a vocal proponent for improving the frequently used route. The road was not designed for the volume nor the high speeds of vehicles it sees.

“It’s a wagon trail, and it was not intended for that amount of traffic,” he said.

The resurfacing is being funded through a state appropriation. Senate Bill 2189, passed by the Mississippi Legislature in April, allocated more than $253 million for local improvements projects throughout the state, including an $800,000 earmark for Minnow Bucket Road. The county expects to receive those funds sometime between July and October.

Road Manager Rush Mayatt said getting bids on the project is an initial step to get the ball rolling. That way, the county is ready to move forward once funds are received.

In addition to the Minnow Bucket Road funds, SB2189 also appropriated:

—       $60,000 for Southeast Volunteer Fire & Rescue

—       $400,000 for a new terminal under construction at Meridian Airport Authority

—       $25,000 for building renovations at VFW Post 12124

—       $25,000 for various costs at VFW Post 79

—       $50,000 for Meridian Police Department SWAT equipment

—       $25,000 for Meridian Fire Department equipment

—       $300,000 for the town of Marion for Dale Drive improvements

Houston said thanks is owed to State Sen. Jeff Tate for his work in getting the appropriations included in the legislation.

Geographically, Northeast Fire & Rescue is a large department. It’s roster, however, does not share the same trait.

With roughly 20 members on the roster and 10 who are active and respond regularly, covering an area stretching from Lauderdale to North Meridian, including a busy stretch of Highway 45, is no easy feat. Despite the challenge, department volunteers work diligently to answer emergency calls and serve their community.

Fire Chief Justin Jordan said he has been working hard to rebuild the department and grow its slate of volunteers. Currently, he said, all 10 active members are fire level one certified, and two are able to provide emergency medical care. Expanding both the number of volunteers and the capabilities of the department are a priority.

“It’s growing. I want to grow every day. I want to get more people in to help other people every day,” he said. “If you know anyone who feels the need to come out and help, come help.”

Like Lauderdale County’s other volunteer fire departments, Northeast organizes an annual fundraiser to bring in money to help with expenses and equipment purchases. Usually held in the spring, the department’s pancake breakfast brings the community out to eat hot pancakes, sausage and more.

“We don’t really ask for nothing, just donations if you want to donate,” he said.

While the department tries to plan the pancake breakfast around other community events, this year’s fundraiser coincided with the Wings Over Meridian air show at Naval Air Station Meridian. Despite the unintended conflict, Jordan said the event had a good turnout and the department is grateful for the community’s support.

“We didn’t know they were going to do the air show at the time,” he said.

Looking forward, Jordan said he is looking at other events the department could organize throughout the year as well.

“I’m trying to plan something else, something more during the year,” he said. “I’m trying to do more besides the pancake breakfast.”

Volunteer fire departments throughout the nation are finding it more and more difficult to recruit people in the community willing to put in the time and effort to do the job. According to the National Fire Protection Association, volunteers make up roughly 60% of America’s firefighters and provide fire protection to roughly half of the country’s population.

Despite making up the majority of firefighters, volunteer numbers have fallen from around 827,000 in 2008 to 635,000 in 2023, with roughly 12,000 volunteers leaving the fire service each year, NFPA research shows.

While numbers have declined, fire departments have seen call numbers go up, with firefighters responding to more and more emergency medical calls.

Jordan, who recently became fire chief for Marion Fire & Rescue as well, said it’s difficult to find people willing to do the job. As with Northeast, he said Marion is basically starting over from scratch, and it takes time to find local volunteers.

“That’s going to be the deciding factor, trying to get people to help out for free. You really can’t because everybody’s got jobs and life and it is rough,” he said. “But I’m looking. I go out every day looking for folks who want to help out.”

Lauderdale County residents joined The Salvation Army Meridian in celebrating the nonprofits new Eloise Hart Temple Client Choice Marketplace with a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony Thursday afternoon.

A remodeled version of The Salvation Army’s long-running food pantry program, the Client Choice Marketplace lets families and individuals choose foods that best meet their household needs. Instead of prepacked boxes, clients will take shopping carts up and down isles selecting what they want from the marketplace shelves.

Sgt. Daniel Noland, commanding officer of The Salvation Army Meridian, said the marketplace is more than letting clients pick their own food. It’s about dignity, choice and hope.

“I like to say this marketplace, it’s more than a food bank. It’s a full shopping experience,” he said. “The clients get their dignity back being able to come in and shop to fit the needs of their family and walk away with a smile.”

Eloise Hart Temple, for whom the marketplace is named, was known throughout the community for her compassion and drive to help others. In 1937, she founded Camp DeSoto, a faith-based camp for girls in the community, and later established Camp Skyline Ranch as an expansion of the idea.

“But her legacy was never only about camp. It was about opening up the world a little wider for others,” Noland said. “She created opportunities for girls to grow in faith and confidence, joy and friendship. She wrote songs, built traditions and created experiences that shaped generations of young women. She was known for seeing what was missing and building it.”

Barbara O’Neill, Temple’s daughter, helped continue her mother’s legacy of servitude with a $101,000 donation to The Salvation Army to launch its Client Choice Marketplace. O’Neill said she is glad to be able to help bring the program to Meridian.

“It’s just such a great pleasure that this gives me,” she said.

There are a few times in everyone’s lives when the “light turns on,” O’Neill said. One instance for her happened as she was driving a man home who she had hired to rake her yard.

When she stopped for gas, the man handed her some of the money he had earned raking and asked her to buy a cake for him to take home to his family. He needed to bring something home to feed his children.

With the opening of the new Client Choice Marketplace, O’Neill said her hope is some of those who are raking yards won’t have to stop for cakes anymore.

Debby Dalshad, advisory board chair for The Salvation Army Meridian, said thanks is owned to O’Neill, as well as everyone who worked hard to make the Client Choice Marketplace a reality. She also thanked those who came out to support the nonprofit at Thursday’s ribbon cutting, including media, community leaders and more.

“We’re just proud that you’re here to join us in this celebration and it means so much to us and all of the people that we serve,” she said.

Educating children is a vital part of the community, and the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian is working every day to make learning fun, the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors was told Thursday.

MCM-Meridian Executive Director Barbara Zeller and Pauline Mobley, director of education & programs, update supervisors on their organization’s efforts to ignite creativity and wonder in its visitors. Zeller said this year marked the museum’s fifth year in operation, and it continues to have an impact both in Lauderdale County and the surrounding area.

“Time flies when you’re having fun, and we take fun seriously,” she said. “It’s one of our core values.”

Since opening, MCM-Meridian has seen more than 250,000 guests come through the doors, with the museum welcoming roughly 55,000 people each year. The museum also saw more than 5,000 field trips last year, with some traveling from as far as two hours away to visit the facility.

In addition to field trips and visitors, MCM-Meridian also has a strong after-school program serving approximately 40 students from Crestwood Elementary School each day. The program rotates through different subjects throughout the week and combines education and play to help kids learn.

Zeller said data from test scores show a significant change for those taking part in the after-school program.

“The students in that program have seen incredible gains in their test scores,” she said. “By some metrics tripling test scores just being with us an hour and a half every day.”

When school is not in session, MCM-Meridian offers day camps and workshops for area children. In addition to being fun and educational, it also provides a good childcare option for working families.

This year, Zeller said, the museum will also hold some summer workshops, which are shorter than the 8a.m. to 5 p.m. day camps. Those workshops will be focused more on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM fields.

In addition to its work educating young minds, the Children’s Museum employs local workers. With approximately 30 employees, Zeller said there are around 13 full-time positions with the remainder being part-time workers.

“A lot of our staff are our young people that are looking to go into the education field or related fields,” she said. “And so while our primary focus is serving children and families and educators, we also know that we are training up, and for a lot of them, their first real job.”

Coming up on June 4 is the museum’s annual Mingle at the Museum fundraiser. One of two events reserved for those 21 and up, the event will feature carnival style games, fun and entertainment, with funds going to support the museum and its programs.

For more information about MCM-Meridian or upcoming events, visit mschildrensmuseum.org/meridian.

 

Lauderdale County residents celebrated with business owners Tuesday as Magnolia Roots & Co. cut the ribbon on its location on Poplar Springs Drive near North Hills.

Opened in March, the boutique offers a variety of gifts, home décor and other items for local shoppers and visitors alike.

“All the support we’ve gotten so far, it’s been really amazing,” said owner Brandon Downing. “It’s been a dream of mine for a long time, something that I’ve worked on for a little while and finally made it happen.”

Helen Sims, membership director for the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, which organized the ribbon cutting, said she is glad to see a new boutique open in the North Hills area. Seeing new businesses open in all different areas of the community is evidence of positive growth.

“If you haven’t been in this front door, you have a wonderful surprise for you,” she said. “My first time in I was like, ‘Oh, they’re going to get some of my money,’ because they have so many creative things that we need.”

With residents busy with a multitude of activities, community events and more, having a cozy and welcoming home to return to is a necessity, Sims said. Magnolia Roots & Co. can help give a home that extra push with their products.

“I’m just so impressed with what they’ve created here for us to shop because all the different areas of our community are so important,” she said. “So, to be here in North Hills, I just really appreciate their investment, and I appreciate them investing in the EMBDC.”

Although the business has only been open for a few months, Downing said wheels are already turning to grow even further. Plans are already in place to expand the store’s footprint to use some available space next door.

“We have so many plans, and we want to see Meridian support us and grow, and they already have,” he said.

Magnolia Roots & Co. is located at 4805 Poplar Springs Drive.

Lauderdale County residents took time Monday to remember and recognize more than 244 military service members from the community who died serving their country as the nation marked Memorial Day.

In a ceremony held at City Hall, county, city and state officials, veterans and community members listened to the names of the fallen being read out loud so their names would never be forgotten.

Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd, who served as emcee for Monday’s program, thanked all those involved in organizing the event. Recognizing and remembering fallen military service members is critical, both for the community now and future generations.

“Memorial Day is not just a date on the calendar. It is a sacred debt of remembrance we owe to those who gave everything for our freedom,” he said.

Lt. Col. Jason Byrd, who serves as chaplain for the Mississippi Air National Guard and guest speaker for Monday’s event, encouraged the crowd to tell the stories of those who didn’t make it home, say their names and honor their legacy. Going to a cemetery and placing flags at military graves and praying for Gold Star families are also ways to mark the holiday.

“I would say most importantly do this. Be a citizen worthy of the sacrifice that they have made,” he said.

Arguing and division are rampant in every community throughout the nation, Byrd said, but America is at its best when people are united and working together.

“Turn down the volume and love your neighbor. Serve your community. Vote, support those who are in public office, pray for them. Do whatever you can to be a citizen that is worthy of the sacrifice that has been made on your behalf so that we may all continue to enjoy the American way of life, the liberties and freedoms that are the envy of everyone else in the world,” he said. “That’s the best thing you can do, the best commitment you can make this Memorial Day.”

While television and movies depict heroes as superhuman or action stars, the true heroes are everyday people who stepped up to serve their country, Byrd said. They were people with goals and dreams for the future that will never come to fruition because they gave their lives making sure future generations could see their dreams come true instead.

Monday’s program included a 21-gun salute by the Meridian Police Department, Taps played by J.B. Griffith, posting of the colors by the Naval Air Station Meridian Color Guard and national anthem sung by Zena Limerick.

The event was organized by the Veterans Appreciation Committee and East Mississippi Veterans Foundation with support from local veterans’ organizations and more.

 

 

 

 

East Mississippi residents are invited to join veterans organizations and local officials on Monday for the annual Memorial Day program at the East Mississippi Veterans Park.

The program is held to recognize and honor the sacrifice of U.S. armed services members who were killed while serving their country, said Tommy Horne, who serves on the Veterans Appreciation Committee organizing the event.

“It’s to commemorate the people who died in America’s wars and conflicts,” he said.

This year’s program is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday and will feature a flyover, 21-gun salute, reading the names of the fallen and more. Guest speaker for the event will be U.S. Army Chaplain Lt. Col. Jason Bird.

The Veterans Appreciation Committee previously held its annual Memorial Day event at the Doughboy Monument in downtown Meridian, however this year it will be at the East Mississippi Veterans Park, located next to Key Field Air National Guard base at 5955 M Street.

Jeffery Summerlin, president of the East Mississippi Veterans Foundation, said Monday’s program is a combined effort between the Veterans Park and Veterans Appreciation Committee. The two organizations got together last year and decided to host one Memorial Day event instead of the two separate events held in years past.

“Last year’s Veterans Day was a combined effort and Memorial Day this coming Monday is a combined effort,” he said.

Part of the vision for the park was to be able to host events like the Memorial Day ceremony, Summerlin said. Joining with the Veterans Appreciation Committee to organize Monday’s event is part of why the park exists.

Horne said everyone is encouraged to come take part in the event. Residents don’t have to be a veteran, family member or have other ties to the military to take part.

“You don’t have to have some kind of military connection,” he said. “We want everybody to come out.”

While both Lauderdale County and the City of Meridian lend support, the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs rely on multiple veterans organizations and numerous volunteers to be successful, Horne said. More volunteers are always welcome to join in the effort.

 

East Mississippi residents have a chance to win a one-of-a-kind quilt being raffled off to benefit the Friends of Lauderdale County Animal Control.

Created by Christine Campbell and longarm sewn by Piddle Sticks Quilting, the homemade quilt will be given to one lucky winner in a drawing set for July 4.

Lauderdale County Animal Control Director Rocky Rockette said funds raised through the raffle will go to help reduce Lauderdale County’s pet overpopulation by providing low cost spay and neuter vouchers for local residents.

Not everyone can afford to have their pets spayed or neutered, Rockette said, and providing financial assistance to those residents ultimately reduces pet populations and the number of animals coming through the shelter.

Tickets cost $5 each or three for $10 and can be purchased online through the Community Foundation of East Mississippi or from the Lauderdale County Animal Control Shelter.

Rockette said he wants thank Campbell and Piddle Sticks Quilting for making the quilt and providing it for the raffle, as well as all those who have purchased tickets so far. Every dollar goes to support the shelter and its efforts to make Lauderdale County a better place for animals.

To purchase raffle tickets, visit https://cfem.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/list/event?event_date_id=3508, scan the QR Code on the raffle flyer or visit the Lauderdale County Animal Control Shelter at 6100 Rocky Lane in Marion.

Families and youth are invited the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department on Monday, June 8, at 6:30 p.m. for an Exploring Open House to learn more about the new Exploring program for area teens.

The new program is a partnership between the Sheriff’s Department and Scouting America’s Mississippi Riverlands Council to give youth hands-on experience in a law enforcement career.

Explorers will learn about forensics, traffic stops, crime scene investigations and self defense, go on ride alongs and much, much more.

Southeast Lauderdale seventh graders on Monday spoke to the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors about their recent project to collect, reuse and recycle plastic waste. Over the course of a week, the students gathered more than 6,000 pieces of waste plastic.

A portion of the material was taken to a recycling facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Students also plan to reuse some collected plastic bottles to build a watering system for the school’s raised garden beds and other plastic waste to build a mural raising awareness about plastic recycling.

As part of their project, the students explored the impact plastic waste has on the environment and brainstormed ideas about how to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in oceans and landfills. Some suggestions included public recycling programs, community cleanup initiatives and efforts to bring awareness to the issue.

Supervisor Josh Todd said the Southeast class had done its research well and delivered a professional presentation to the board.

“You all looked awesome,” he said.

Supervisor Kyle Rutledge said the hands-on approach to learning about plastic waste will help students remember what they learned for a long time.

First responders in Lauderdale County will have another way to alert motorists of crashes or other emergencies after the Board of Supervisors on Monday approved the purchase of a message display sign for Lauderdale County Emergency Management.

LEMA Director Odie Barrett said the sign is similar to tow-behind message signs used by the Mississippi Department of Transportation but is designed to be even more portable and easy to set up. It runs off a battery and can be programed with whatever message the county needs to share.

“This sign is going to be for a quick response sign,” he said. “We’ve got access to some big ones that may take a while to get out to a site, but if we’re working a wreak or something on the interstate, this particular sign being portable will allow us to get on scene quicker with a message board to alert everyone coming down the road of what’s going on ahead of them and take corrective actions.”

Barrett said the message board can be folded up and carried in the back of a vehicle. When needed, it can be mounted on a truck or on a free-standing base. While Monday’s action was to purchase just one message display, Barrett said he may look to buy additional units in the future.

“We’re going to see if this one works, and if it’s good then I’ll look at buying another one,” he said.

In a work session Thursday, County Administrator Chris Lafferty said the county might want to purchase several message boards if the first one works well. The Road Department, Sheriff’s Department and others could also find use for the portable signs as well.

Metro Ambulance providers were recognized Saturday for excellence as two first responders were named statewide Providers of the Year at the annual EMS Gala hosted by the Mississippi Center for Advancement of Prehospital Medicine.

EMT James Joseph was selected by his peers for his exceptional dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to Metro Ambulance Service and his coworkers. James is a 19-year veteran of Metro Ambulance Service and was chosen from among 1,938 EMTs across Mississippi to receive the distinguished honor.

Operations Manager Autumn Mize McWhirter said James is consistently uplifting to those around him and demonstrates a positive spiritual attitude that has a meaningful impact on both his coworkers and the patients he serves.

AEMT Mushula Tubby was also selected by his peers for his upbeat personality, strong commitment to recruitment, and his continued willingness to assist and train new personnel. His positive attitude and leadership within the field have made him an invaluable member of the Metro team.

David Mapp, Chief Operating Officer for Metro Ambulance Service, said he often refers to Mushula as “The Rockstar” due to the energy, enthusiasm, and positivity he brings to every shift.

These two outstanding providers exemplify the highest standards of emergency medical services and reflect great credit upon Metro Ambulance Service and the citizens of Lauderdale County. Their achievements are a direct reflection of the professionalism and dedication.

Mapp said Metro is proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the residents of Lauderdale County with professionals of this caliber.

East Mississippi law enforcement officers, families and supporters joined the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department in paying tribute Thursday to those killed in the line of duty during the Peace Officers Memorial Service at the Lauderdale County Government Center. The event was held as part of National Police Week, which runs May 10-16.

“A Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony is not only a time of reflection, it should also be a time of gratitude, a time where we honor these officers who lived with commitment, integrity and a willingness to stand between danger and the communities that they served,” said Sheriff Ward Calhoun.

District Attorney Kassie Coleman said law enforcement is a thankless profession, and the general public can never fully understand the trials and sacrifices officers take on to keep their communities safe. Families of law enforcement also make sacrifices, she said, and family members of fallen officers will always feel the loss.

“This week is about two things, remembrance and also gratitude. To those of you that are here today because you lost a loved one because they made the ultimate sacrifice, we recognize that you are living with that sacrifice each and every day. We recognize that because your loved one was willing to stand in the gap to protect their community, you now live life without them,” she said.  “We want you to know that they are not forgotten, and we will not allow them to be forgotten.”

For others, Coleman said it falls to the community to live up to the ideals those officers gave up their lives to defend. Don’t simply voice support for law enforcement but show it by building a better community.

“Be a community that’s worthy. Be a community that shows appreciation,” she said.

Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd said county and Meridian law enforcement are the reason he feels safe. Should something happen, he knows there will be dedicated officers coming to help.

Todd, who serves as president of the Board of Supervisors, presented a proclamation passed by the board recognizing local law enforcement during National Police Week.

“On behalf of the board, and myself, and my family, thank you for what you do,” he said. “What you have is a thankless job, and it goes unnoticed a lot of times, but to me it does not.”

As part of the Peace Officers Memorial Service, leaders of Newton, Kemper, and Lauderdale county law enforcement agencies, as well as Mississippi Highway Patrol, read the names of fallen officers throughout their agency’s histories.

Calhoun said each name represents an officer who served their community, a family member who is gone and in many cases a friend.

“Though they are no longer with us, their examples continue to guide and inspire us. May we never forget their sacrifice, and may God bless the memory of the fallen and all who continue to serve,” he said.

Fallen Law Enforcement include:

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department

— Jailer J.R. ‘Bob’ Temple – 4/6/1910

— Deputy J. Edward Bolton – 12/4/1929

Meridian Police Department

— Patrolman James Madison Collins – 10/28/1888

— Patrolman Eugene L. White – 5/21/1908

— Patrolman James H. Culpepper – 10/10/1910

— Patrolwoman Alma B. Walters -12/28/1985

— Patrolman John Ruffin – 2/16/2022

— Patrolman Kennis Winston Croom – 6/9/2022

Clarke County Sheriff’s Department

— Constable Henry Prince – 1/18/1961

—Deputy Robert Curtis Goodwin – 4/6/2004

Enterprise Police Department

—       Police Chief Randy J. Boykin – 3/19/2013

Heidelburg Police Department

— Patrolman Lawrence Dale Coker — 1/2/1981

Jasper County Sheriff’s Office

— Deputy James Garfield Pugh – 8/24/1929

— Deputy Buford R. Bunch – 4/16/1966

Kemper County Sheriff’s Department

— Wahalak Constable John O’Brien – 12/24/1906

— Deputy Giles Joiner – 3/19/1934

—Sheriff Michael L. McKee – 8/9/1997

—Deputy William John Walters – 7/15/2007

Neshoba County Sheriff’s Office

— Deputy John Adam Myers – 10/7/1927

Philadelphia Police Department

— Patrolman II Leann Simpson – 11/24/2018

Union Police Department

— Town Marshall John James Speed – 12/25/1937

— Town Marshall George I. ‘Senie’ Worthen – 6/11/1944

Mississippi Department of Public Safety

— Trooper Daniel E. Smith, Mississippi Highway Patrol – 11/7/1959

— Agent Marc Lee Whatley, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics – 8/20/1998

Meridian and Lauderdale County residents celebrated the growth of a longtime local business Thursday with a ribbon cutting for Gentiva Hospice’s new location on 26th Avenue.

Helen Sims, membership director for the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, which organized the ribbon cutting, said Gentiva had outgrown its old location and needed to find additional space to continue to thrive.

“They have been a longstanding business here with the chamber of commerce for our community, but they did not even have enough room in their conference room for their staff to be able to get together,” she said. “And so they were looking for new space, and that’s why we’re celebrating growth today and the fact that they can be able to serve their patients and clients better.”

Sims said the highlight of her job is getting to work alongside businesses like Gentiva that are actively growing and investing in the local community. Entrepreneurship and innovation help drive the city forward.

Gentiva offers a variety of home health and individual care services for those with complex illnesses, long recoveries or other situations needing additional help. Jordan Farrell, area director for the company, said the staff at the Meridian clinic provide great care for local residents, and that is part of the reason a larger space was needed.

“This office, speaking of growth, you’re a five-star in quality. We’ve been able to grow the business. It’s such a nice building for us to be able to bring our folks in, have our meetings and still be a part of the community,” he said.

Meridian Fire Chief Michael Evans thanked Gentiva for its continued investment in the city and said the city, and the fire department, are there to help if needed.

“Thank you all for choosing Meridian. Thank you all for continuing to stay in Meridian. Like I said, call us anytime. We’ll help you in any way we can,” he said.

Gentiva Hospice’s new office space is located at 4709 26th Avenue in North Meridian.

Lauderdale County community leaders, business owners and elected officials recognized the efforts of a long-time area advocate on Thursday by dedicating an alley revitalization project in honor of Ann Alexander.

A bronze plaque installed at the end of the alley declares it “Ann’s Alley” in recognition of her efforts in bringing the project to life.

Alexander, one of the architects behind the alley project, which sits between Weidmann’s Restaurant and the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, has championed a number of community projects over the years, including the alley and the creation of The Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience.

“I served 40 years on the council, and one of the persons who always told us what we need to do is Ann,” said George Thomas, who retired from the Meridian City Council in 2025. “She was always there pushing to improve this city, and their family has done tremendous things around this city.”

Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd, who serves as board president, said anyone involved in local politics knows Alexander and knows she does not stop once she takes up a cause. The alley project, which turned a derelict passageway into a modern pedestrian thoroughfare, is an asset to the community, and she and all the people involved in the project deserve thanks.

“We are the coolest city, and if you don’t believe it, go around to other cities and see what they’re doing,” he said. “If you’re not doing something like this, you’re a dying city.”

Efforts to transform the alley have been ongoing for years, but little progress was made until a $200,000 appropriation from the state kickstarted the project. The Meridian City Council in 2024 earmarked $800,000 to unravel a web of utilities beneath the alley and install storm drainage, and additional federal funds were secured for above-ground improvements. In all, roughly $1.2 million was secured through local, state and federal sources.

Chris Phillips, division manager for Mississippi Power, said he has known Alexander for years, but didn’t get involved in the alley project until stepping into his current role. Alexander had previously worked with his predecessor and quickly brought him into the loop on her vision for the space.

“For me, this is what leadership looks like,” he said. “You start with a grungy, dirty product to start with, and then you keep working at it. You keep laboring for it. You keep praying over it, and it turns into something beautiful.”

Alexander said there are many people who deserve thanks for their efforts in getting the alley project from concept to where it is today. It was only possible through their hard work and passion for bringing the project to live.

While the alley is open, it isn’t finished just yet, she said, and there are still more improvements she has in mind for the space.

“We’re going to finish the whole thing, and it’s going to be beautiful, and we’re going to be very proud of our city,” she said.

Meridian and Lauderdale County education leaders on Wednesday recognized a group of local students for going above and beyond by completing the Mississippi Scholars and Tech Masters program.

A total of 75 students from Meridian and Lauderdale County schools received the designations, which require good grades, advanced placement courses, community service and more.

“To achieve Mississippi Scholar or Tech Master status is not easy,” said Lloyd Gray, executive director of the Phil Hardin Foundation. “It requires planning, goal setting, hard work, persistence and tenacity, all attributes that will serve students well in furthering their education and entering a career and living their lives.”

Gray said the annual ceremony recognizing local Scholars and Tech Masters is one of his favorite activities through the Phil Hardin Foundation, which provides a monetary reward for students achieving the status.

Rosalind Operton, assistant superintendent of student support for Meridian Public School District, said all 75 students should be extremely proud of what they have accomplished. Whether they come from the city schools or county schools, their achievement should be recognized.

“They are the best of the best, and so once again, I honor you students, all of you and your parents, and your schools, what you are doing and what you have done,” she said.

John-Mark Cain, superintendent for Lauderdale Couty Public School District, said becoming a Mississippi Scholar or Tech Master shows a commitment to learning, but it also develops and grows character traits that will serve students in college and their careers. It is a test of commitment, willingness to work hard and resilience in the face of challenges.

“You’ve set a standard of excellence and serve as a beacon of inspiration for all Lauderdale County,” he said.

Thomas Saylor, who represented Scholars and Tech Masters from Clarkdale High School, said he plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall, where he will study biology. Saylor will also be part of the McCollough Institute for Pre-Medical Scholars.

The highly competitive four-year program is intended for those planning to attend medical school after completing their college degree.

Saylor said the funds he received from the Phil Hardin Foundation will go toward advancing his studies.

“After that I hope I’ll be able to get into med school and continue my path into orthopedics,” he said.

 

Causeyville Fire & Rescue is not a large department, but its members are dedicated to what they do. Fire Chief Billy Hagwood said he has 23 active volunteers, with 13 certified firefighters. Together, they cover a service area of 24 square miles.

“We basically do everything, respond to everything like a paid department,” he said. “If they page us, we go do what we can whatever the situation is.”

The department was founded in 1987 with the station located on Vimville Causeyville Road. Unlike some of the busier departments within the county which get calls daily, Causeyville Fire & Rescue was called out 64 times in 2025.

A low call volume is good in that it means no wrecks, fires or other emergencies in the community, but it can also be difficult to keep volunteers motivated and engaged when there isn’t a lot to do.

Causeyville has mutual aid agreements with Long Creek and Southeast Fire & Rescue, as well, Hagwood said, and the department also helps its neighbors in Clarke County when needed.

In a rural area of the county, Hagwood said Causeyville does have some fire hydrants but mostly relies on water shuttle when fighting fires. There are six designated fire lakes throughout the department’s service area where tankers can fill with water.

Long Creek and Southeast also operate a water shuttle and work together to make sure those fighting the fire have all the water they need.

“Everybody’s got at least one tanker, so they pull up, drop their tank, dump their water and they go to wherever we’re filling at,” he said.

Each year on the third Saturday in November, the department hosts Causeyville Day, which acts as the department’s big fundraiser for the year. The event features Boston butts, barbeque plates, ribs, live music, vendors and more. The past 10 years have also featured a car show as part of the festivities.

“That’s been going on since, well, before the firehouse got started,” Hagwood said.

While the department gets some money through fundraising, from the county and grants, every volunteer fire department is hurting for resources, Hagwood said. Costs to outfit a firefighter have skyrocketed to where equipment costing a few hundred dollars 20 years ago now costs thousands.

What most people don’t realize, he said, is that equipment expires. After 10 years, the jacket, pants, air pack and everything else a firefighter wears at a fire must be replaced.

“Whether we wear it into a fire or not, if you’ve got brand new gear that’s 10 years old, it’s never seen a fire, you’ve got to take it out of service and replace it,” he said. “It takes a lot of money.”

A recent purchase for new gear for three firefighters came in at approximately $14,000, he said.

The goal is to have two sets of gear for each firefighter so they can wash one set after a fire and still be good to go. Firefighters are exposed to a lot of carcinogenic materials, and washing gear is needed to get all that off, Hagwood said.

Funding isn’t the only need for volunteer fire departments, Hagwood said. Like other departments throughout the county, Causeyville Fire & Rescue needs more volunteers.

Having worked for 27 years as a firefighter at Naval Air Station Meridian and more than 40 years of experience in firefighting, Hagwood said he understands not wanting to put on an air pack and run into a fire. Given the choice, neither does he.

“There are a thousand things to do outside that house fire. You don’t have to even go in to fight fire. You don’t have to touch nothing or actually do firefighting,” he said.

Volunteers can learn to drive the firetrucks or tankers, how to pump the trucks, stage equipment for firefighters so they don’t have to walk all the way back to the truck to get what they need and more. Even helping the department with fundraising efforts or other needs makes a difference.

One way residents can support their local fire departments is through their electric bills. Hagwood said East Mississippi Electric Power Authority customers can choose to add $1 to their monthly electric bill to go to the volunteer fire department of their choosing. Several rural water associations within the county also offers the option.

Hagwood said those funds are distributed quarterly, and the department has benefited from the programs. Even a few hundred dollars each quarter makes a big difference.

While small, Causeyville Fire & Rescue does what it can to protect the people and property in its community. The dedicated volunteers answer fire, medical and other calls as quickly as they can and bring whatever resources available to help their neighbors.

“I can remember before there was a volunteer fire department here. Somebody’s house burned, slab to the ground, everybody went and stood back and watched,” he said. “You didn’t have a fire truck. What else were you going to do?

“It’s to help your neighbor or somebody in your community that you know. You’re there to do the best you can with what you’ve got.”

East Mississippi youth interested in law enforcement as a potential career choice can get a first-hand look at what it takes to keep Meridian and Lauderdale County safe after the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department and Scouting America on Thursday announced a new explorer program.

The program, open to youth ages 14-18, will give students an opportunity to work side-by-side with Lauderdale County deputies, investigators, crime scene technicians and more.

“Exploring focuses on hands on experiences, leadership development and mentorship from community professionals like the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department,” said Rachel Daleo of Scouting America’s Mississippi Riverlands Council. “We’re really excited about this opportunity.”

Sheriff Ward Calhoun said the explorer program is a great way for the department to not only connect with area students but also meet those already interested in law enforcement careers.

Explorers will meet twice per month at the beginning, Calhoun said, with opportunities for ride-alongs and other things coming as they advance through the program.

“When we talk about law enforcement, it is much broader than somebody who wears a gun and a badge and is out in a patrol car. You’re talking about kids who are interested in science. We need individuals who are interested in fingerprints and blood analysis and doing chemical analysis on drugs,” he said.

Michael Fortenberry, a former explorer, U.S. Marine, part-time deputy and current Airforce member, said his experience with the program had a profound impact. It showed him what opportunities were out there and helped guide him into his career.

“It helped me get where I am here,” he said.

The explorer program gives teens the ability to explore those interests and see how their passions can be used in the law enforcement field, Calhoun said.

To qualify for the explorer program, students must be at least 14, graduated eighth grade and have at least a C average in their classes, Daleo said. Those interested in joining the program can contact the Meridian Scouting office at 601-693-6757 for more information.

Over the next few weeks, the sheriff’s department will be putting out more information about how to get involved in the explorer program through its social media channels, Calhoun said. School resource officers at Lauderdale County schools will also be able to point interested students in the right direction.

“Hopefully soon you’ll see them out and about later on this summer as we get started on this program,” he said.

 

East Mississippi residents concerned large data centers will cause their utility bills to skyrockets can put their worries aside, Meridian and Lauderdale County leaders were told Thursday.

At a lunch and learn event at the MSU Riley Center, Compass Datacenters Vice President of Campus Strategy Sarah Ridgely said the company works hard to minimize environmental disruption to the community. The company wants to “be a good neighbor,” she said.

“And that phrase, ‘Be a good neighbor,’ influences decisions that we make about building design, hiring, everything from noise ordinance compliance all the way down to landscaping,” she said. “And it’s how we engage in the communities that we operate in.”

Compass Datacenters in January 2025 announced a $10 billion investment in Lauderdale County in the form of an 8-building data campus in the I-20/59 industrial park. Groundwork began in June 2025, and the first building began construction in February.

The company expects to build roughly one building per year for the next eight years. Ridgely said each data center building will have roughly 30 full time employees when complete, with a total workforce of around 240-300 employees.

While some residents have voiced concerns about the data center’s electric and water needs, Ridgely said those shouldn’t be problems for Lauderdale County. The data centers being built here use a closed loop cooling system, she said, and won’t have a continuous draw on local water resources.

“Each of those buildings has a small office space, so that’s really the only part of the building that’s using municipal water,” she said.

Electric usage is also a factor, Ridgely said, but Compass is footing the bill for infrastructure upgrades needed to supply the huge demand its buildings will create. That cost shouldn’t fall back on residents.

“We pay for all for all of the infrastructure that’s being built for that project, and that infrastructure in turn actually helps the community,” she said. “Other companies that decide to locate here or grow here have access to that too, so we’re paying our way.”

Mississippi Power will be providing power to the data campus, but each building will have backup generators if needed. Noise from generators has been another concern with data centers, and part of Compass’ goal is to work with the community to minimize disruptions.

Compass is committed to being part of the community, Ridgely said, and the community will see that as the data centers are built and begin to go online.

“What matters is really what you’ll see over time at the campus and what our contributions are to Meridian. Look at how we follow through. Look at how the project progresses and how we show up in Meridian because our goal isn’t just to build a set of buildings here. It’s really to create that long-term presence and that long-term opportunity,” she said.

Lauderdale County officials joined state tourism leaders at the Mississippi Welcome Center in Toomsuba on Wednesday to kick off National Travel and Tourism Week by unveiling the newly renovated facility.

Upgrades to the center include fresh paint, new wallpaper and specially curated artwork from the Magnolia State’s talented artists.

Rochelle Hicks, executive director of Visit Mississippi, said tourism is Mississippi’s fourth largest industry and plays a major part in the state’s overall economy. It’s a field that involves every city, county and community throughout the state.

“Tourism is the fourth largest industry in the state, but it is a team effort, and we have so many people in every community, in every place around the state that are promoting tourism every day,” she said. “If you work in a gas station and you’re friendly to them and you tell them where they should go and what they should do in your community, you are part of the tourism family.”

Laura Carmichael, executive director of Visit Meridian, Lauderdale County’s tourism arm, said visitors to the Queen City make a huge impact for both the local community and the state.

“Tourism is a powerful driver for Mississippi and Lauderdale County. It supports local businesses, creates jobs, and brings new energy and opportunity into our community. Every visitor who stops here—whether for a night or just passing through—makes a meaningful impact,” Carmichael said.

National Travel and Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the people who drive tourism but often aren’t recognized, such as hotel staff who welcome guests and point them in the right direction to the restaurant workers who provide quality service and a good meal.

“I want to extend a special thank you to our partners at Visit Mississippi for their continued leadership and support in promoting destinations like ours across the state and beyond.  Your work helps tell Mississippi’s story in a way that inspires people to explore, connect, and experience all we have to offer,” Carmichael said.

Wednesday’s celebration coincides with local and state efforts to commemorate America’s 250th birthday through its America 250 campaign.  Mississippi has played a key role in that history, Hicks said, and it has an important place in telling the nation’s story.

“Our state is rich with history and culture and contributions that have helped shape this nation. From the land itself to the music, the people and the enduring spirit of resilience and innovation,” she said.

America 250 is a rare opportunity to celebrate American and Mississippi culture, music, history and more, Carmichael said, and Visit Meridian is looking forward to it.

“As we look ahead, we’re especially excited about America 250—a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase our nation’s history, culture, and creativity,” she said. “Mississippi has a unique story to tell, and we are proud to be part of that larger American narrative.”

Lauderdale County officials joined other community leaders Tuesday in celebrating a milestone in the life of one of Meridian’s most well-known restaurants. Cater’s Market marked 20 years in business with the unveiling of a carousel horse named “Handy.”

Kathy Parrish, community outreach coordinator for Hope Village for Children, a shelter for abused and neglected children, said Cater’s Market owner Jamie Cater is not only responsible for building a successful restaurant but is also the brainchild, along with Debbie Martin, behind Meridian’s carousel horse program.

Founded in 2000, the Around Town Carousels About program encouraged local businesses and organizations to purchase a carousel horse and have it decorated. In addition to being a community-wide art piece of more than 80 horses, some of the money from the horses goes to benefit Hope Village.

“Our records weren’t great 26 years ago, but we have done a little estimating,” Parrish said. “So over 26 years, 89 horses have been sold, and over the years the prices have gone up for those. But Hope Village, we do think, has probably made upwards of $100,000 on those horses.”

Adding in sales from a book Hope Village published and merchandising miniature replicas of carousel horses and the organization has likely raised more in line with $150,000 to $200,000 from the program, Parrish said.

When the carousel horse program first launched, Cater said, she couldn’t get a horse because she hadn’t started her restaurant yet. Two decades later, both the carousel horses and her business are thriving. Cater’s Market, originally opened on Highway 493 near North Hills Street, has since opened locations in Starkville and in downtown Meridian near the Mississippi Children’s Museum-Meridian.

Cater said she chose to put her carousel horse at the Cater’s at the Museum location so children could see the brightly colored sculpture. Handy is decorated with handprints from local children, she said, which serves as a reminder of all the different people who put time and effort into making her business a success.

“Lots of neighborhood children put their handprints on there, and I thought that would entice children from the museum to come over,” she said. “But the other thing I see when I look at this horse, it reminds me of al the hands that have been a part of my business in 20 years.”

Lauderdale County Supervisor Josh Todd said the past 20 years have seen the Cater family repeatedly invest in their community. Just two years ago, they took a rundown building on 22nd Avenue into a small eatery in downtown.

“Three years ago, this was pretty much a blight. It was rundown, but look what they’ve done to it,” he said. “For 20 years y’all have invested in Meridian and Lauderdale County. In 20 years, everyone is invested in y’all.”

 

 

Lauderdale County Sheriff’s deputies, Meridian police officers, Metro ambulance personnel and other first responders celebrated the community’s special needs athletes Tuesday morning with the annual Special Olympics Torch Run in downtown Meridian.

Beginning at Dumont Plaza and ending at the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, the yearly event celebrates athletes with special needs as they prepare to take part in the Special Olympics of Mississippi Summer Games.

“The law enforcement torch run kind of started as a grassroots movement to support the Special Olympics,” said Kara Clark, who organizes the event. “We go out, we do these things like these runs that we’re doing today to promote to the community and show our awareness and our support for the Special Olympics.”

The torch run begins in North Mississippi each year and moves south with different law enforcement agencies taking part in the event. Eventually, the torch reaches the coast where the Summer Games are usually held at Keesler Air Force base in Biloxi.

Tuesday’s event celebrated athletes from the Queen City region, including Lauderdale, Kemper, Clarke and Newton counties. In total, more than 7,000 athletes compete in Mississippi Special Olympics each year.

Sheriff Ward Calhoun said his department has been a part of the torch run for more than 20 years. It serves as an opportunity to encourage local athletes who will be competing in the games.

“This is done all across our state in different areas, where law enforcement has partnered with Special Olympics in order to encourage those athletes who are going on to the state level and then some even from our area have gone on nationally to compete,” he said. “It’s just a great way for us to encourage them and we appreciate the opportunity to be engaged the Special Olympics community.”

Anyone interested in supporting the Special Olympics of Mississippi or its athletes can learn more at specialolympicsms.org. Clark said residents can donate, volunteer or simply cheer on their local athletes as they go to compete.

 

Lauderdale County supervisors are exploring the possibility of building a new jail away from downtown Meridian.

In a meeting Monday, the Board of Supervisors passed a resolution of intent with Benchmark Construction Company. The resolution is a demonstration of interest in moving forward with a new facility but does not commit the county to going further and does not cost anything.

In April, supervisors heard from David Marsh of Benchmark about his company and its process of building new jails. Benchmark has been building detention facilities for more than 47 years, he said, with completed projects including Newton, Pearl River, Madison, Webster, Jefferson Davis, Tate, Copiah and Simpson counties, among others.

Supervisor Josh Todd, who serves as board president, said the county has not committed to anything yet, and there is still a lot of questions to be answered. Todd reiterated the county does not currently have funding for a new jail.

“This is the first step just to get this going,” he said. “We’re not saying this is going to be done in a year or two years or nothing like that, but if we don’t start working towards an end, we’ll never get there.”

The resolution is also broad regarding what the new jail will include. County officials have discussed new space for the E-911 department, as well as tackling the need for a place to house juvenile offenders.

Mississippi has less than a dozen juvenile detention facilities and fewer that accept outside offenders. Costs for housing juveniles can easily top $100 per day and does not include travel expenses.

Supervisor Craig Houston said the county spends a huge amount of money on juvenile offenders and he will be looking for any future jail planning to include a viable solution.

Monday’s action puts the county in a position to move forward when funding for the project becomes available. Todd said doing the groundwork now will help later on.

“I think we need to be ready instead of getting ready,” he said.