The Pearl River County Board of Supervisors met Monday to advance infrastructure and economic development projects, approve grant reimbursements, address code enforcement issues, and recognize a long-serving county employee ahead of her retirement.

Supervisors honored Carolyn Nelson, who is retiring after more than a decade of service with the county. Colleagues thanked Nelson for her commitment and presented a plaque in appreciation of her work.

The board accepted a ceremonial $50,000 check presented by Thomas McElroy of Cooperative Energy and Wendell Lumpkin of Coast Electric. The funds represent two Cooperative Competes site development grants supporting improvements at the Pearl River County Industrial Park and Technology Park. The grants, matched with state funds, have helped finance land clearing, grading, and building pad preparation.

“These partnerships have allowed us to stretch local resources,” said Lindsay Ward, the county’s economic development director. “Without Cooperative Energy and Coast Electric, the match requirements for state grants would’ve fallen solely on the county.”

Each park now includes two cleared and graded pads capable of supporting 10,000-square-foot buildings, as well as roughed-in access roads for future expansion.

Supervisors also approved a reimbursement request totaling $538,371.71 for Highway 26 improvements related to the development of the industrial park.

County Engineer Les Dungan provided updates on multiple infrastructure projects. The board approved a construction change request to place additional fill material at a discounted rate of $12 per cubic yard to make building pads “pad-ready” for industrial recruitment.

The board awarded a bid for improvements at Bill Watson Park and approved a contract for bridge repairs on Hill Farm Road, which will require an eight-day closure. Notice will be provided in advance.

Supervisors approved cleanup proceedings for two properties cited for public health and safety violations involving junk vehicles, loose dogs, and unsanitary conditions. A May 21 compliance deadline was set.

Board members also discussed ongoing delays in federal disaster declarations following severe tornado damage in early April. Without formal declarations, local governments remain financially responsible for storm-related response and recovery.

In other business, the board:

• Approved the purchase of right-of-way on South Valley Road for $2,800. 
• Discussed repurposing topsoil removed from a Pearl River Central High School athletic field for county park improvements. 
• Approved letters of support for $169,000 in emergency operations center upgrades and public safety equipment enhancements. 
• Heard reports of sewer blockages in the Sones Chapel Road area due to residential grease disposal and flushable wipes. 

The county will host a National Day of Prayer event on May 1 at 8 a.m. at the Poplarville courthouse.