Jammie L. Garrett

The strategic plan for Columbus Fire & Rescue focuses on protecting life and property through public education, code management, and incident response. Key areas of focus include acquiring and maintaining necessary facilities, equipment, and apparatus, aligning recruitment and retention practices, enhancing personnel knowledge and skills, improving community engagement, and meeting service delivery expectations. The plan also emphasizes reviewing and developing policies and procedures, creating a culture of excellence, and pursuing national accreditation to achieve organizational excellence and provide quality customer service.

The Board of Commissioners convened for a meeting covering several key areas. Quarterly employees were honored, and the monthly water and electric bills were approved, pending budget and compliance verification. Financial data was presented, and motions were passed to request GIS qualifications and participate in the TVA Energy Right Home Uplift Program. Updates were provided on the PFAS lawsuit, property purchase for warehouse upgrades, and proposed city annexations. Personnel matters were approved, including a promotion and a new hire.

The meeting addressed a request concerning the property located at 1411 College Street. The applicant requested to remove two stairways on the front of the historic dwelling and replace them with one stairway. The commission decided to table the request until the Mississippi Department of Archives and History provides a recommendation.

The Board reviewed the financial reports, including the General Account, investments, and CCHDO accounts. The 2023 Proposed Budget was discussed and tabled for a future meeting. Updates were provided on the RAD plan, Salary Study, and the transfer of funds from COCC to CCHDO. The Board approved writing off bad debts and Resolution No. 2022-08. The Disbursements for December, the Occupancy Report for November, and Resident Service Reports were reviewed and approved. Updates were given on contract work, REACT inspection results, and upcoming meetings. A motion was passed to add Vivian Irby as a check signatory, and Martin Andrews will search for an AFG Grant to build a new fire station.

The meeting included discussions about the benefits, risks, and disadvantages of RAD, with insights from a RAD consultant. Financial reports were presented, including the General Account, Other Investments, and CCHDO accounts. The board also reviewed disbursements, the occupancy report, and departmental updates, including the status of computers from TVA and snack-food for after-school programs. Policy changes for the Center Rentals, the PD supplementary security agreement, contract work, REAC Results, and upcoming meetings were also discussed.