Whitney Hodges

This Joint Land Use Study, led by Lauderdale County in partnership with Naval Air Station Meridian and other local entities, aims to guide planning and development around NAS Meridian and Naval Outlying Landing Field Joe Williams. Its goal is to protect military mission viability while promoting community growth, environmental health, and public safety. The study identifies 25 compatibility factors, including those related to land use, noise, safety, and infrastructure, and proposes an implementation plan with strategies categorized into non-regulatory Military Awareness Areas and potential future regulatory Military Influence Areas to foster compatible land use and operations.

The meeting included discussions and proclamations related to the 2020 census, recognition of the West Lauderdale late-night soccer team, and recognition of blinded veterans. The board also discussed and approved requests related to occupant protection grants and DUI grants, as well as approving Robin Maclaurin's attendance at the Mississippi Fire Investigators Association spring seminar. Additionally, they authorized the purchase of body cameras and in-car video cameras.

The meeting included discussions on personal property taxes, insolvent Oklahoma taxes, and mobile home taxes. There were mentions of collection efforts, including actions by collection agents and the pursuit of unpaid taxes. The board also discussed issues related to properties with unpaid dues and potential solutions. Additionally, the agenda covered annual assessments, training opportunities for law enforcement personnel, and various approvals for transfers, contracts, and funding related to county operations.

The agenda included approval for agendas, client's pocket, and financial analysis system. The board discussed amending the 2019 budget and advancing funds from the general fund to the blog account. A public hearing was held regarding the budget and tax levies. The board also considered a resolution authorizing participation in the MAS debt set-off program and a funding agreement with Lauderdale County Economic Development District. Additionally, they discussed accepting and approving the projected tax rate for the fiscal year.

The board discussed various items including personnel matters, vehicle issues for the Sheriff's Department, and grant approvals. They also covered training opportunities for staff, including a street crime seminar, standardized field sobriety test training, and control force defense tactics instructor certification. Additionally, the board addressed tax-related matters, approved deputy attendance at a course, and discussed building schools. Other topics included a military day event, road work approvals, school bus turnarounds, and inclusion of public notices in the minutes. They also discussed Labor Day observance, accepted a quote for a GPS system, and approved a transfer of funds to a DUI grant. Furthermore, they ratified mileage, approved attendance at conventions, and addressed travel for various staff members.