Washington County leaders received a series of promising economic development updates while also engaging in lengthy discussions on healthcare funding priorities and property tax sale procedures during a recent Board of Supervisors meeting.
Washington County Economic Alliance CEO Justin Burch reported progress on several major grant opportunities and development initiatives. An additional $60,000 has been secured to support expungement clinics later this year, expanding access to legal relief services for residents. Meanwhile, a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development grant tied to the county’s industrial site has advanced to its final phase, with a decision expected within two months.
Further boosting optimism, a $1.5 million Environmental Protection Agency grant has also reached the final round, with an announcement anticipated within four weeks. Engineering work is underway on approximately 642 acres at Mid-Delta Regional Airport, where multiple site development plans are expected to be presented soon.
Burch also highlighted a partnership with Mississippi State University aimed at launching an innovation hub in the Delta. The project is backed by $1.5 million in federal funding, along with an additional $750,000 contribution from the university.
Supervisor Mala Brooks also addressed quality-of-life concerns, including deteriorating conditions at the Department of Human Services parking lot. Supervisor Carl McGee, board president, acknowledged the issue and suggested immediate patchwork repairs while pursuing long-term funding solutions.
A major point of discussion centered on a request from Delta Health Center for a $1 million county contribution toward a proposed “super clinic.” The facility aims to expand access to primary and preventive care, particularly for uninsured residents.
The proposal sparked debate among supervisors, with some expressing concern about funding a potential competitor to the county-supported hospital system, while others emphasized the need for expanded healthcare access.
“We have to find ways to work together to ensure that everyone has some form of healthcare,” supervisor Mala Brooks said, noting that many residents rely on emergency rooms due to lack of insurance.
No final decision was made, with the board opting to revisit the request at a future meeting after further research.
Supervisors also examined the county’s tax sale process, particularly the use of online bidding. While officials noted increased participation and higher bids through online platforms, concerns were raised about out-of-state investors and property maintenance issues tied to absentee ownership.
Despite differing viewpoints, officials acknowledged that state law governs the tax sale process and limits local control.
Additional actions included approval of routine financial matters, infrastructure payments, and emergency repairs following January’s winter storm. The board also authorized steps to recover federal reimbursement funds related to storm damage and discussed ongoing debris removal efforts across the county.
The meeting concluded with several items tabled for further review, including board appointments and healthcare funding decisions, as officials continue balancing economic growth, public health needs and community concerns.
