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The Simpson County Board of Supervisors recently gathered for a productive meeting, where they discussed various county matters, including infrastructure updates, park enhancements, and an exciting broadband expansion project. September 15, 2025
County Attorney Danny Welch presented the following items to be recorded in the minutes. Additionally, proof of publication regarding the county’s ad valorem tax levy for the current fiscal year was entered into the record.
Next, Jessica Gunther from Comcast presented plans for a broadband project aimed at expanding service in Simpson County. Comcast was awarded a $6 million grant to improve service along Highway 49 and extend it into rural areas like D’Lo, Braxton, and Mendenhall. The project will include both aerial and buried fiber lines.
Gunther also proposed a cable act agreement to grant Comcast access to county rights of way, with the county’s consent on permits and codes. As part of the agreement, the county would receive 5% of Comcast’s gross video service revenue. The board attorney will review the proposal before any further steps are taken.
Marsha Bratcher of the Simpson County News appeared before the Board requesting to purchase an ad for The Source Magazine. The Board approved the action.
Josh Wiginton from Upchurch Heating and Cooling gave an update on the condition of HVAC systems across county facilities. While the systems are generally in good working order, he noted that several units at the 911 building and nine rooftop units at the jail are aging and will need to be replaced soon. He also mentioned that the jail’s original hot water heaters would require attention soon, although the systems have held up without major failures.
Jason Barr, a member of the D’Lo Park Board, shared progress on park improvements. The park has a budget of $313,356.allowing the purchase of a pressure washer system for maintenance. Plans are to add three to four new camping pads. Barr requested assistance with tree removal and dirt work to support the park’s expansion. Planned upgrades include remodeling a cabin with a new porch, repairing floors, and adding a bathhouse near the river. Barr also proposed increasing campsite rates, from $30 to $45 for nightly stays and $450 to $550 for long-term stays. The park board also submitted a grant application to fund a new classroom, restroom, and nature trails with observation decks.
Road Manager Jeremy Bolton reported on the installation of a new 35-mph speed limit sign on Lee Boggan Road. The Dewitt Flynt Bridge is currently closed due to a damaged piling. Bridge striping on the State Aid Roads has been completed. Saratoga Sharon Road will be closed through the 17th at the railroad crossing for repairs.
Sheriff Paul Mullins reported Brandy Mitchell, new dispatch hire, certified part-time $14.75 an hour. Permission to send Donna Smith to attend MS Council on Aging grant implementation on September 16th in Canton, MS, cost of travel only. Moving Pam Savell from the Sheriff’s Administration, from $15.81 per hour to $17.31 Layla Bryant from the Sheriff’s Administration, from $15.90 per hour to $17.31 per hour. Katie McAfee jail rate increased from $15.70 per hour as a sergeant to $16.05 per hour.
Jamie Brewer tax assessor requested that employee Carolyn Williams attend school online. The board granted permission. New hire Ashley Curlee.
County Engineer Greg Bonds shared that advertisements for the county’s upcoming pre-leveling project, slated for November, are already in progress.
Emergency Management Coordinator John Kilpatrick provided an update on the county’s E-911 service, which handled 1,378 emergency calls. He also urged residents to be cautious during the dry weather to prevent the need for a burn ban. Kilpatrick will teach a class for aldermen concerning emergency management.
County Attorney Danny Welch briefed the board on a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant, explaining that local fire departments can apply for funding either through the county or directly. Discussions are ongoing about applying for a pump truck. The board also approved road work for the Ashland Lane subdivision, pending necessary paperwork.
Lastly, citizen Anthony Wilson appeared before the board with a petition to have the county take over ownership of Barnes Estate Road, also known as Woodrow Barnes Road. This road serves five homes, and the board agreed to review the matter legally before taking further action.
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